Understanding Computer Laptop Batteries

Types of Laptop Batteries:

Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries: These were the first rechargeable batteries manufactured for laptops. They were relatively inexpensive, had high output and versatile, because they could be used in a wide variety of products. However, NiCd batteries have now been abandoned by laptop manufacturers with the introduction of more efficient and lighter-weight batteries.

Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries: NiMH was a big improvement concerning power output, reliability, cost, safety and capacity. The "memory effect" was the only issue with NiMH batteries which require them to be fully discharged before recharging to gain maximum output. These batteries can still be found in older model laptops.

Lithium Ion (LiON): This type of batteries has become the most popular for laptops since the “memory effect” has been eliminated, and much lighter than the other two in weight. However, the market price is also the highest.

Battery Cycle:

One battery cycle is used every time a battery is charged or discharged. Technically speaking, it is defined as the number of cycles a battery can perform before its nominal capacity falls below 80% of its initial rated capacity. Lifetimes of 500 to 1200 cycles are typical. For example, NiCad battery has a cycle life of 500-1000 or more cycles.

Battery Run-Time:

Battery run-time depends on a number of factors. Most of the time, it is the design of, and the power demands made by the machine that determines the actual battery run-time. For example, use of the screen, the hard drive and other accessories will significantly influence the duration of the run-time.

What are Smart and Dumb Laptop Batteries:

Some laptop batteries are equipped with internal microprocessor circuits that help manage battery energy, set the charger to the correct charge algorithm, predict running time, or according to Smart Battery System (SBS) forum, provide a state-of-charge (SoC) indication. These batteries are called “Smart” batteries. Those batteries termed as, “dumb” do not have these features, may be just counterparts, or may function to provide power only.

Optimizing Laptop Batteries:

1. “Condition” is a term for fully charging and discharging a new laptop battery to maximize performance and allow it to reach its maximum rated capacity. NiMH and NiCd batteries need to be conditioned at least once a month to reduce the “memory effect”.
2. Metal connecters should be cleaned occasionally to maintain good conductivity
3. Ensure that device's power management features in the BIOS and Operating System are optimized, turning off the screen, using speed step
4. Avoid leaving your laptop on overnight all the time while charging. The laptop should be turned off occasionally.
5. Store the battery in a cool, dry, clean place if you’re not going to use it for a month or longer.
6. Turn down the brightness of the LCD screen when watching a movie on our laptop. Decrypt DVD movies and store it on your hard disk drive to avoid constant use of the DVD drive which consumes a lot of power
7. Never expose your laptop battery to heat, moisture, short-circuit, drop or physically abuse it.
8. Batteries HQ everything you need to know about batteries.

George_Royal

Bedstands For Your Laptop Computer

Essential you can get and take your office anywhere and be able to work efficiently from anywhere from work or home. Also since laptop prices are dropping, they're no longer seen as exclusive luxuries. In fact, everybody from the writer in the coffee shop to the student on the college dorm relies on the convenience of these portable laptops.

The stands come in many different shapes and styles, including products designed especially for use in bed. Users can enjoy the comfort of sitting or lying on their back on the bed, with the computer comfortable supported in front of them. Not only does it put your laptop in the right position, but it also takes the heat off your lap. Great solution to get work on your laptop while relaxed.

It was always an option to use your laptop in bed, but the stands create a whole new experience. There are two different designs to pick from. Both are perfect for everything from writing a paper to playing a game. They sell equally well, so it's just a matter of personal preference which you'll like.

The first style of bedstand sits on the bed. There are legs that are positioned on each side, wide enough to reach over the user. For efficient storage purposes, these legs are on hinges so that they can be folded up. These hinges also have locking features, which allow you to adjust the height your laptop is at during use. The plane that the laptop rests can be angled for your favorite viewing preferences. These products come in different materials, such as wood and metal, and are offered in numerous colors.

The other type is a stand that rests on the floor and reaches over to the bed. This is a basic arm design, which is seen in hospitals to rest food trays. There are different moving components, which can be adjusted for the right position, and lock in place. These models generally have wheels, so you can move the stand out of the way when it's not in use.

Regardless of which style you pick, you'll surely be satisfied with the comfort you receive. Sitting comfortably in bed, you'll be able to fly through your work, never wanting to leave the absolute comfort you've achieved. By doing some research online, you'll be able to see a huge selection and find the best prices. You'll wonder how you even worked in bed without a stand!

Chris Jensen

Learn How to Buy A Good Laptop Computer

When buying a laptop, you need to consider factors beyond performance and weight. There are many additional things like screen dimensions, battery life, and keyboard and connection options which you have to think about.

Let's look at some of the factors one should consider when buying a laptop.

1. Processor

One of the first things you need to consider in a laptop is the CPU. The latest laptop CPUs include Intel's Core Duo and Core 2 Duo processors which outperform older single-core Intel processors (e.g. Pentium M). Other laptops use the AMD Athlon Turion 64 X2 dual-core processor - which is also a good performer. In general, however, if you're looking for a laptop, I'd advise you to look for one with an Intel Core Duo processor. You can also read this guide to find out more.

2. System memory

The amount of RAM in the laptop is very important. If you're not short of cash, my advice is to get at least 1GB of RAM - that is the minimum you need to get newer PC applications to run fast. Also remember that you can always add more memory to your existing laptop. You may be interested in this short guide on how to install new memory modules into a laptop.

3. Graphics memory

Laptop graphics are another feature you will want to consider. Typically, I'd say you should go for 128MB of dedicated video RAM. Also, ensure that the graphics memory is used solely for graphics use and not shared with the main memory. If you intend to play games on the laptop, then look for advanced 3D graphics chips with about 256MB to 512MB of dedicated graphics memory. Be prepared to fork out a lot more cash though.

4. Screen

You will also want to take a look at the laptop screen. Laptop screens have recently become bigger. Most of them have gone widescreen so you can watch movies or edit spreadsheets more comfortably.

If you intend to use the laptop from home a lot, then I'd go for a 17-inch wide screen. If you are more concerned about portability or if you travel a lot, then laptops with screen sizes of 12.1 or 13.3 inches might suit you better. There are also 14.1- or 15-inch screens for laptops, but I believe manufacturers are shifting away from these models.

5. Battery

Here's another critical factor - laptop battery life. I personally find it very frustrating to have my notebook power run out after 15 minutes at Starbucks. What you need to do is to buy a laptop that has about 3.5 hours of battery life, running on a Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor. Make sure you question the retailer on how long the battery can last - a short battery life is usually a deal breaker for me.

6. Keyboard and Pointing Device

Some people believe that the keyboard and pointing device on a laptop is important. If you have big fingers, you might be more comfortable typing on a larger notebook keyboard than a small one. Make sure you try the laptop out - get the feel of typing and navigation before you buy the laptop.

7. Optical drives

I'd usually recommend getting a laptop with a rewritable DVD drive as a minimum. One thing you need to know is that some laptops sacrifice a DVD drive in exchange for a lighter weight and portability. If you don't think you need a DVD drive all the time, then you might want to get a model that doesn't have one.

8. Hard drive

In the laptop hard drive department, what can I say? More is better. These days, you can get a notebook hard drives coming in sizes of 160GB or more. You can also get SATA hard drives if you have more cash.

9. Weight

Another thing to note is the weight of the laptop. Now, when you buy a laptop, always remember that the total weight includes the notebook AND the AC adapter, any external modules, and their cables. These can add up to quite a bit of weight.

10. Communications

These days, you will find that most laptops come with at least two USB 2.0 ports - I'd recommend that as a minimum. If you do a lot of video editing, then a FireWire (IEEE 1394) port also becomes essential.

You should also check for good network capabilities. Make sure your new laptop has built-in ethernet capability, a built-in wireless connection and also built-in Bluetooth (if you need to transfer data between your mobile phone and the laptop).

Some of the laptops also include card slots for removable media such as CompactFlash, Secure Digital and MultiMediaCard. If you take a lot of digital photos, then this feature might matter to you.

11. Laptop Shopping Tips

Whew! That sure is a long list of features to consider when buying a laptop. In addition to understanding the features, there are three important laptop shopping tips you should bear in mind.

Tip #1: How will you use the laptop? One of the problems when you buy a laptop is that you pay for features you don't really need. One of the best ways to avoid paying too much is to consider how you will use the laptop. If it is mostly for word processing, then settle for a cheaper machine. If it is for gaming, then you need a more powerful one.

Tip #2: Think of features you will not compromise You should also be aware that there are some basic features in a laptop you should NOT sacrifice. For example, for me, if I were buying a laptop, I'd choose (as a minimum) - an Intel Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB of RAM, 160GB of hard drive, a very small screen size and a super long lasting battery. Your list of critical feature may vary.

Tip #3: Remember you can pick and choose Most vendors will let you custom-build your own laptop. This is a good thing, because you can just pick those features you need and not pay any extra. You can easily purchase a faster notebook by accepting a smaller hard drive or DVD drive, for example.

Conclusion

I hope this article has shown you that ins and outs of buying a laptop. Remember, a laptop is an expensive device. It will also be something you bring along anywhere you go. Hence, it is critical that you do proper research and find the correct laptop to suit your needs. Remember the above tips the next time you're in the market for a laptop, and happy shopping!

Gary Hendricks

Try Before Your Buy - Computer Laptop Rental Option

Even Grandmothers Can Do It!

There may still be a few of you out there who are apprehensive of purchasing a laptop computer either because of cost or lack of knowledge. But with today's laptop computer being more affordable and the technology making them easier to use, you need not be. In just a minimal amount of time, with the all the new user-friendly prompts, one could become another computer geek. There is even a computer laptop rental option for those who don't want to spend the money until they have tried to navigate around a computer on their own. Being a grandmother, with my children and grandchildren living and traveling to various parts of the world, I found it necessary to overcome my fear.

The hardest part of my introduction to the laptop computer was to learn how to hook up and manipulate an external mouse, punch a few buttons on the keyboard, and basically, to just turn the machine on. It's hard for some folks to believe, but the computers of this generation almost run themselves! Read on to discover for yourself just how little computer knowledge most of these machines actually require.

Even being completely new to the computer I was able to use it without even knowing what the mouse was for or how to use it. I went the computer laptop rental route prior to the purchase a computer. I found one that was set up to operate on voice command. Voice command software allows users to tell a computer what to do and the computer responds by fulfilling the user's commands. Although it's pretty new and still under development, voice directed technology has already infiltrated consumer service related systems.

Have you ever paid a bill by phone? Instead of speaking to a human being, chances are that you spoke to a computer that not only responded to what you said and followed the commands that you gave it, it also asked you for more information such as your full name or credit card number. In this case, a person (such as myself) operated a computer without even knowing it!

Does the computer novice still need more incentive to sit down with a laptop computer without knowing how to use one? Imagine a computer that is set up to operate on touch command. Actually, one does not have to imagine, it is already available and has been for several years. Touch command software allows users to literally touch objects on a monitor with their finger to tell the computer what to do. Known as "kiosks," these programs are already in use world wide at ATM machines, employment centers, and in health monitoring systems. Most people have used the ones at department stores when checking out wedding or baby gift registries. Neither a mouse or a keyboard is required. A computer user only needs to touch various boxes on a screen to input information onto the computer. The programming behind such technology is extensive and advanced, but to the end user, it makes the use of a laptop computer less intimidating and just plain easy. With a little research you may find a computer laptop rental available with this technology.

These illustrations are just a couple of example of how far computer technology has grown, and how far we have pushed "user-friendliness" to its limit. So much of today's software is designed to accommodate the new laptop computer user. Anyone can get connected to the Internet wirelessly, send an email message, and download an MP3 file within the first few hours of purchasing a personal PC or possibly using a computer laptop rental. Don't be afraid to take the plunge, even a grandmother like me is able to go online, access her e-mail and print photos!

Mary_Swanson

Searching For the Best Laptop Computer Deals?

Buying a laptop computer is one of the times when the old adage "You get what you pay for" applies. Be very wary of any laptop deals below $500 (US). Those laptops will usually be out of date, will not be able to run some of the latest software and will be difficult to find parts for. But that doesn't mean that laptop deals are nonexistent. If you are patient, do comparison shopping and follow the advice here, you should be able to get the perfect laptop for you without breaking the bank.

The first thing that you have to do when you are looking for the best laptop is to keep your own needs in mind. Remember that not all laptops are the same. In fact, they are going to provide you with different things depending on who you are and what you are doing with them. If you need a laptop for work, you are going to have different needs than if you need one just to play games. So, the first thing that you should do is make sure you have your own needs set. This is the best way to make sure that you have the best laptop for you.

Depending on what you need your best laptop for, you are going to have several brand choices to make. There are many different brands of laptops, and in order to decide which is the best laptop for you, you need to do some research on all of the brands. This is the only way to make sure that you know what each of them holds.

Do you need to add a lot of peripherals to your laptop? Peripheral is a fancy word for any accessory that can plug into your laptop like a webcam, a projector or your cell phone. You have to be sure your prospective laptop can handle all these accessories.

Once you have a little better idea of the different types of laptops and what they offer to you, you can go to the various websites and do some price and comparison shopping. This is important because not only do you need the best laptop, you also need the best deal in order to make it worth it. If you can find the best deal, you will be happy with your laptop.

Peter_Kingston

Don't Confuse Refurbished Laptop Computer With Poor Quality Technology

Many shoppers confuse a refurbished laptop computer with inferior quality merchandise. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. In a very large number of cases, computer shoppers buying a refurbished computer can make a money saving purchases. More often than not, consumer hesitations associated with purchasing a refurbished computer are overblown. These computers are very often factory re-engineered and re-tested to the same rigorous manufacturing standards as brand new computers.

In the simplest definition, a refurbished computer is a computer that has been repaired, cleaned, and restored to its original condition. These laptops have been repaired or made as good as new. A refurbished machine almost always comes with a full warranty from the manufacturer. In fact, one of the best ways to spot a quality refurbished computer is to determine if a full warranty is offered to the potential shopper. The presence of a warranty means every aspect of the refurbished laptop computer has been brought back to the original electronic specifications.

Refurbished Notebook Computers

Refurbished notebook computers offer a very healthy, pocket pleasing cost benefit. In almost every case, the refurbished notebook computer is priced well below the cost of a brand new laptop computer. All of the major laptop computer manufacturers off their refurbished notebooks at reduced prices, when compared to the price of a brand new laptop with the same specifications. Dell, Hewlett-Packard, Compaq, Apple, Lenovo and other laptop manufacturers offer refurbished laptop computers at their outlet locations on the web. Without a doubt, the smartest way to obtain a refurbished notebook computer is to buy it directly at the manufacturer's outlet store, or at one of their authorized vendors. The Manufactures themselves and their authorized vendors take great care to offer the buying public quality products at cheap prices because they want positive feedback after the sale from satisfied customers.

Of course, it is important for shoppers to research the refurbished, cheap laptops they are considering for purchase. While a refurbished notebook computer is, in general, a cheap laptop computer, it is usually the case that the hard drive and amount of ram cannot be upgraded at the time of purchase. A cheap laptop computer, such as a refurbished laptop from a major manufacture outlet store, is usually a "buy as is" item. This means that the individual components cannot be upgraded at the time of purchase. While a cheap laptop computer may not offer the purchaser upgrade options at the exact time of purchase, they are still great bargains because the warranty offers replacement services for the components that accompany the cheap laptop computer.

Cheap Laptop Computer

Cheap laptop computer is not to be confused with poor quality because they are a lot less expensive than their newer counterparts. On the contrary, since refurbished portable computers have been restored to their original specifications, they are simply less expensive than new machines. Now, it maybe the case that the computer which has been refurbished is an older model, but that does not mean it isn't fully functional or that it cannot be upgraded after the purchaser has taken possession of the computer. in fact, given that bigger hard drives, ram and new keyboards can be easily purchased from resellers of laptop parts, the cheap laptop computer is an excellent consideration for those on a tight budget, such as most college students or the retired person just learning how to use a computer for the first time.

The purchase of a cheap computer that will fit your computing needs does require some research and cost comparison before making the final purchase. Ordinarily, consideration before the purchase of a cheap laptop computer should be given to the type of software to be run on the computer, the amount of ram necessary to run the software smoothly and the weight of the entire laptop. However, the purchased of a cheap computer that has been refurbished to meet the original manufacture specifications can be a financially rewarding experience. For those on a budget and those buying a first computer, a cheap laptop computer that meets the users' researched requirements and comes with a standard refurbished computer warranty can be a very smart and rewarding approach for first time computer buyers.

Michael Greene

Free Laptop Computers Without Surveys

We all hope that the surveys that pop up on websites from time to time will really give us free laptop computers. However, the majority of these surveys are tricks or are misleading about what they really offer. Thus, it is important to always read the small print whenever you see a deal that seems too good to be true. If you do encounter a situation that promises more than it gives, then you can report it to the Better Business Bureau, to the authorities, and to the website the advertisements and surveys are popping up on.

Thus, when you see an advertisement offering free laptop computers without surveys, money, or some kind of exchange, you need to be wary and look to see what you have to really do to receive the laptop computer.

People don't get something for nothing unless this is an act of charity, and so, unless you are a piece of a school program or participating in a charity that gives free laptop computers, you need to do research into why the laptops are being given away, if you will actually receive a free laptop computer without having to fill a survey out, and what is expected of you. Be sure to research the company offering the Dell laptop computers and what their history is like.

There are websites that review "free computer" sites for you. One of those sites can be found Here

If you proceed with caution, you can end up saving yourself a lot of time and energy. You don't want to fall victim to a scam because it could end up costing you a lot in the long run. As long as you are logical about the advertisements you see, you might just end up with a computer that doesn't cost you an arm and a leg.

David_Millers

TV Tuner For Laptop Computer - How to Watch Satellite TV on Your Laptop?

Have you ever wanted to catch your latest shows right on your laptop? The truth of the matter is that more and more people are looking into installing a TV tuner onto their laptops and enjoying all their favorite programming as it gets downloaded onto their machine. If you want to reduce the amount of hardware that you have around the house or apartment, you'll find that you can turn your laptop into an excellent home entertainment system, so if you feel that this technological innovation is something that you would enjoy, there is some information that you should be aware of. Choosing the right TV tuners for laptop computers can make all the difference.

The first thing that you need to know is that your computer is capable of operating just like a television, as long as it has some equipment that will allow it to do so. Find out if your computer has a TV tuner in it. In many new models, this is something that you can find, but if you have a slightly older or more stripped down model, you will need to go find yourself an external TV tuner. An external tuner will connect to your computer using a USB cord it will use an adapter plug to hook your laptop up to the cable outlet in your apartment. See what the right TV tuner for notebook computer will do for you.

If you are going to go hunting for an external TV tuner adapter, which is also known as TV tuner card, you will find that you can find them easily at any basic electronics store. When you have a selection in front of them, make sure that you are looking for the number of channels that it will support as well as the frame rate that it will support. You will also find that you are going to need to make sure that it will sync up with the sound card that it provides, and finally, always make sure that the adaptor will fit what you have at home. This is all fairly basic, but don't decline the help of the store employees if you want clarification on a few things. Finding the right TV tuners for laptop computers is something that you need to make sure that you get right the first time.

When you are looking to turn your laptop into a place where you can watch TV, you'll find that for the most part, you are going to want a PCMCIA based TV tuner. These tuners are much more portable than those meant for desktop PCs, but you'll also find that they tend to have fewer outlets and fewer features. A USB-based TV tuner is actually quite easy to use and easy to install, but keep in mind that if you have an older computer that it might not be able to process the heavy data flow.

Remember that finding the right TV tuner for notebook computer use is something that you are going to need to consider. This means that you can enjoy hours of entertainment, all without logging out or missing your AIM Chat, simply by finding the right TV tuners for laptop computers.

Vidhya Perumal

Laptop Computer Reviews

If you are approaching the time to invest in a new or first owned laptop computer then you'll probably be wondering what ones are the best. Certain brand names and computer retailers come out with laptops that are above the competition and deciphering which ones are the best can be difficult, especially for a consumer that isn't very tech savvy. Here's a brief laptop review guide to the best computers out there.

Apple MacBook Pro 15”: The Apple MacBook is one of the newest computers of 2007 and it is one of Apple’s latest and greatest inventions. It is a 15.4” screen with 120 GB of hard drive (very big!) and built in Bluetooth technology. The pros of the MacBook are its size and screen while its cons are mainly its price. Let’s start with the size. The MacBook has a pretty small look to it and it is incredibly thin. When stacked up against other like laptops this computer will be much thinner and portable then the competition. Its screen is an LCD screen that has a few cool benefits. Number one, it has a sensor that automatically reads the room’s brightness level and adjusts the computer’s screen so that it is always at the proper level. Number two, you have the ability to manually adjust the screen’s brightness so you’re always in control of how the screen looks and how much light you need. The biggest con of the MacBook of course was the price. Priced at $1900 it is a little on the high side, although lower than many other laptops with similar features.

Sony VAIO: The VAIO is one of the most popular computers currently on the market and it sells so well for a number of reasons, including its style, its weight and its features. The VAIO is only 6lbs and it has a stylish, widescreen that many consumers love. The screen is backlit with LCD lighting and it is designed for the person who enjoys watching movies or playing video games on their laptop. With 120 GB of hard drive this computer is built to hold plenty of movies, music files and games. The Sony VAIO is the perfect laptop for the consumer seeking an entertainment device. Plus, being priced around $1300-1500 it isn’t too high for a person to finance.

HP Pavilion dv9000: This HP laptop is a little different from the devices the company has come out with in the past and many consumers love the change. The dv9000 is a Media Center laptop that comes with an innovative HD screen, meaning all DVDs and visuals will be enjoyed through high definition. This laptop is perfect for the consumer who needs a computer that can handle media files because it has 200 GB of storage, a 17 inch widescreen and at $2,300 it isn’t the most expensive like machine out there.

Well there you go, laptop reviews to the best new computers on the market today! For more laptop reviews check out the Consumer Reports or PC Magazine.

Kelly_Hunter

Laptop Computer Rentals

The greatest advantage of laptops is that they are portable, so businesses on the move are their biggest fans. However since laptops are more expensive than desktops, it becomes wiser most of the time to rent them.

Companies rent laptops during trade fairs or seminars, outstation presentations or employee training. Even if a company has its own computers, it is better to rent a laptop as these are wireless devices and can be taken anywhere. Laptops are lighter in weight and use LCD displays. Laptops are also the answer when the need for a computer arises at a short notice, or for a short length of time. Temporary offices that are set up, like during the construction of a building, may be totally conducted from a makeshift office with rental laptops. Laptop rentals are in demand during news coverage at a particular area, such as in the aftermath of a disaster.

Renting companies most of the time take care of the entire setup. Setup includes installing the appropriate software on the laptop and checking for Internet connection. It is better if the renting company is informed in advance of the software needed. Users are required to check the functionality of the laptops. However. some rental companies only ship the equipment leaving the set up to the user.

Renting laptops is a very easy process. There are several online companies that provide rentals. They can be paid for by check or by a company credit card. There is no binding on the rental period. A company may either terminate the rent before the period ends or extend it as per their need. There are penalties for either early termination or extension.

Laptop rentals are also economical as these may be tax deductible. Most laptop companies have warranties on their equipment ranging from 45 to 90 days.

Eric_Morris

Laptop Computer Sales

When purchasing a computer online, there are some helpful tips that you should consider. The first is obviously where online should you go to make a purchase. It is wise not to buy computers from online discount stores, swap meets or online auctions. They may be cheaper, but you really have no guarantee that you’re getting quality for your money. Remember, if the price sounds too good to be true – it usually is not.

If you are in the market for a laptop computer, there are some important considerations that will make your purchase a satisfying experience. One of the most important considerations is the battery power. Laptops are usually used for travel – either on the road on in the air. You need to know how long the battery will last. Ask what the standard battery usage life is when using your computer in all power modes. Some manufacturers will try to dupe you by giving usage time for the lowest possible settings.

Another important consideration is the portable computer’s display. Make sure that it is large enough to suit your needs. The smaller the screen, the cheaper the computer will sell for; however, when traveling you should have a laptop with at least 12” or larger screen.

You also need to think about the hard drive in the laptop you are considering. A standard computer hard drive will hold all of your files and information. If the drive fills up too quickly, you’ll need to add an additional drive. Therefore, you should always look for a drive that is large enough and has plenty of memory so that you will not run out of space.

Other considerations that are relevant in shopping for a laptop are the modem and network card. Make sure that a modem is included with your purchase, and if a network card is required, make sure that it is included as well.

Finally, when purchasing your laptop from a manufacturer, remember that they all have good points and bad points. The most important facts to consider when choosing a manufacturer is that you make sure that you get proper documentation. Meaning, information on how to use the machine, what comes with the computer, whether or not the computer can be upgraded in the future, etc. If the documentation is available over the Internet, make sure you read it closely. Finally, read the warranty. Make sure you know how long is is for, and if it covers both hardware and software.

Ken_Marlborough

TV Tuner For Laptop Computer

There are 2 types of tv tuners for laptop computer, one is a hardware based solution and the other a software. Both will work just fine on laptops but they vary in terms of costs, number of channels offered and portability. These will be discussed in this article.

The first solution is to get an external PCTV card for your laptop. External PCTV cards come in the form of USB device. This tv tuner for laptop computer typically comes with its own proprietary software that enables you to stream hundreds of live television channels through wired broadband connection. A device like that costs a few hundred dollars and can be found at any major PC hardware stores.

The other tv tuner is a software known commonly as satellite tv software. This software when installed, gives you access to thousands of channels worldwide in different languages. It streams live satellite channels through internet and works on both wired and wireless broadband connections.

Both solutions only require a one-time cost which is for the purchase of hardware/software. However, it is interesting to note that a good satellite tv software will cost you no more than $50. Furthermore, it can offer more than 3000 channels on a standard package.

In terms of portability, majority of PCTV cards require a wired connection whereas wireless connections work just fine with satellite television software. That means you can be watching a football match or favorite tv serial in a cafe or anywhere in the world with a WIFI connection. Personally, satellite television software is, to me, a preferred tv tuner due to its portability.

Before you purchase a PCTV card or satellite television software, it is good to make sure they are supported by the operating system of your laptop. Windows Vista or Windows XP should be fine but if you are running Mac, it is good to check with the product merchant or read the FAQs before making a purchase.

George Tho

How to Clean Your Laptop Computer

Do you know how to clean your laptop computer? If you're purchased a good laptop, it only makes sense to keep it clean and dust-free.

Not cleaning your laptop can lead to a lot of problems. Dust can build up in your laptop cooling vents and cause your system to overheat. Dirt may also get trapped on your screen or keyboard and cause problems.

In this article, we will learn how to keep your laptop spick and span in a few a simple steps.

1. Read the User Manual
Before you start cleaning your laptop, I'd recommend that you take a look at any special instructions in the laptop user manual. Manuals will usually highlight to you any special precautions you need to take, e.g. not to use any harsh cleaning agents or rough material on any part of the laptop. Once you understand the special precautions to take, you can get started on the cleaning process.

2. Equipment Needed
You'll usually need the following to clean your laptop computer:

• Compressed air
• Some cotton swabs
• Cleaning solution
• A soft cleaning cloth (e.g. cotton t-shirt)

You can also find some good laptop cleaning kits available in the market, such as the one below.

3. Cleaning the Exterior
The first step is to clean the exterior of your laptop. What you do here is to use a soft damp cloth to clean the casing of the laptop. Never, ever use an abrasive cleaning cloth or use harsh cleaning products. If you do that, any glossy finish on your new laptop will get eroded very, very quickly (ouch).

4. Cleaning the Display
To me, one of the most irritating areas where dust and grime accumulate is the laptop screen. This is because the screen is where you view the output of your work, your movies, etc. So any dust on the screen is very noticeable.

When cleaning the display, first you need to turn off the laptop. Again, don ever use abrasive cloth or paper towels to clean your display. You will scratch it and leave more than dust and grime on the screen.

You can try to use monitor cleaning solutions which come in spray form. Spray some on a cloth first, then wipe the screen conscientiously from left to right, and top to bottom.

5. Cleaning the Keyboard
I also get very frustrated when dirt gets into my laptop keyboard. One key thing to remember is to keep food and drinks away from your laptop! Even if you don't spill something directly on the laptop keyboard, you just might dirty the laptop with the food and grime on your fingers. Try to get some cotton swabs to clean in and around keys.

6. Cleaning the Cooling Vents
The cooling vents on a laptop tend to trap a lot of dust and grime. What you can do is to use a can of compressed air to spray and clean those cooling vents. One thing to be careful is to avoid spraying so much that you get liquid on the fan blades.

Conclusion
Make sure you regularly set aside time to clean your laptop. Laptops which have not been cleaned in a long time are not only more unattractive, they are also potentially more prone to problems. Take care of your laptop and it will serve you faithfully for many years to come.

Gary Hendricks

A Safety and Care Guide for Notebook or Laptop Computers

Notebook computers - also known as laptop computers - have become an important part of our lives. They are more affordable than ever and as popular as cell phones. A laptop computer has a versatility that the home PC does not provide. With its smaller size it is portable and easier to carry along. This makes it convenient to use in many situations. You can take it to work and back home as well as take it on more extensive travel.

Laptop computers are not just for older working people anymore. Because of its ease of use, more young people are using them for school and college. They can access the Internet almost anywhere and provide updates for work, research, and even games.

Taking Care of Your Laptop or Notebook Computer

It is important to take care of your laptop computer and protect it from accidents. They are designed for heavy use but common sense will tell you that you need to be prudent in your treatment. One of the first recommendations is to buy a case designed for a notebook computer. These are made with padding to protect your laptop computer from wear and tear and protection in case you drop it. It is not good to carry your notebook computer unprotected or in a purse or backpack. You can easily find a case by shopping online where you will find 1000s of products to choose from. Another important tip for laptop computer care is to keep food and drinks away from it. Even a small amount of liquid is enough to ruin the delicate components in the laptop computer. It means almost certain replacement, and most warranties will not cover it. It is not worth the risk to lose all your data.

Protect Your Notebook Computer

When using your laptop computer you should always use a surge protector. An electrical surge may not hurt it one time, but continued surges could destroy it. If you are using a cable or dial-up modem during a storm, be sure to unplug it. Lightening can travel through phone lines and ruin the laptop computer. You should not leave your notebook computer in a cold environment. This can cause condensation when you return it to a warm area and could cause the circuitry to short it out. If it has been in the cold, let it warm up before turning it on. When traveling with your laptop computer, be sure to charge all your batteries before you leave. You might not know when you will be able to charge them again. On a long trip, take extra batteries to avoid this problem.

By shopping online, you can find the supplies you need as well as other products such as iPods, jewelry, games, toys, sporting goods, pet supplies and cell phones - even free gifts. Do not leave your notebook computer unattended and do not check it as baggage when flying. Keep it in your hands at all times to avoid the possibility of theft. Don't try to disassemble or repair your laptop computer; this is a job for professionals. You may inadvertently cause more damage by your lack of knowledge.

Shopping Online

When you are ready to buy a laptop computer, cell phone, iPod, or other electronics, shopping online will provide everything you need.

Chris Robertson

How to Fix and Prevent Sudden Thermal Shutdowns of Laptop Computers

The sudden shutdown of a laptop computer while it is in operation has three common causes among others.

1. The power-supply transformer or adaptor is going bad, causing the power supply itself to shutdown
2. A cooling fan has quit working, causing the laptop to thermally shutdown
3. Lint has collected on the cooling fan guards or in the cooling ducts, causing the laptop to thermally shutdown from lack of adequate air flow

The first two causes and fixes.

The first cause does not happen often. But, to check it or to fix it quickly, a spare power adaptor will do both. The spare will also eliminate this possibly if these shutdowns keep occurring while it is connected. That leaves the two other causes.

The second cause has a greater potential of happening, but not very often. One can lift the front side of the laptop to see if the cooling fan (usually on the bottom side if the laptop) is rotating all right. Many laptops have two fans. If these fans are rotating all right, that leaves only one other common cause. If not, then the nonfunctional fan(s) must be replaced. This replacement can be self-done, but it requires disassembly of the computer. This disassembly is not easy because a laptop has several ports and accessories tightly fitted into its chassis. A repair shop can do it much easier.

The third and most common cause and fix.

The third cause (lint) is the most likely reason why the laptop shutdown. For one thing, the bottom-side cooling fans are close to the surface on which the laptop sits. There, the fans can suck up surface dust easily. This dust collects on the fan guards as lint, which prevents adequate air flow through the cooling air ducts. This lint also collects in the ducts themselves, but in much smaller amounts.

To describe these ducts further, they pass over the metal heat-transfer sinks surrounding the processor, which, in turn, allow the air flow to keep the processor at a safe preset temperature. If that temperature is exceeded, the laptop shuts down quickly to protect the processor. These air ducts usually vent from the back or one side of the chassis.

More-than-likely, however, the easiest and best two-step recommended way to fix this problem most of the time is simply to remove any lint collected on the fan guards. And then, starting from the fan locations, blow out the fan boxes and its connecting cooling ducts with a small canister of compressed air. This cleaning method is not new, but it works well here because only small amounts of lint in the ducts will cause this problem. The compressed air can be purchased at camera, computer, or electronics shops. This problem can be further prevented by blowing out the fans and air ducts periodically.

J_Delms

Laptop Computer Parts

Laptops or notebooks are the way of life in today's modern world. No jets setting executive can do without them, such is their importance. They usually weigh from one to three kilograms, based on their size.

Laptops usually run on a single battery. Some run on an external AC/DC. This could also charge the battery, while supplying energy to the laptop itself. Laptops are capable of doing the same tasks as a desktop PC, though at times they may be a little less powerful. They contain all the components that are present in a conventional PC in a miniaturized size. These components are optimized for mobile use and low energy consumption. Laptops usually have liquid crystal displays. They come with different memory modules for their RAM.
Apart from a keyboard, laptops come with a touchpad or a pointing stick, which is used for input functions. Alternately, in many of the laptops, one can attach an external keyboard of mouse, if the need arises.

Laptops are typically divided into three categories, ultra portables, thin, light and medium-sized. These categories depend on the size of the laptops, as the name suggest. The entire size of a laptop is usually dependent on the screen size, which could vary from one brand to another.

Powerful laptops, otherwise known as desktop replacement computers, are also available. They are usually used in a fixed location and are not that portable because of size and weight. The monitors usually measure 15 inches or more. These desktop replacements have limited battery life due to their hardware.

The early days saw the use of heavy lead-acid batteries in laptops that have been replaced with lighter and more efficient nickel metal hydride and lithium batteries in the present generation laptops. The processors have also become more powerful. Laptops usually come with all kinds of drives like a floppy drive and a separate drive for CDs.

Eric_Morris

Laptop Computers - What Makes Them Better Than Desktop Computers?

Almost all of us would prefer using laptop computers rather than regular desktop computers. Why? Simple, because of the mobility it offers. There are actually more advantages that anyone can think of. Every user has a different experience with laptop computers and one can simply add an advantage while using it. But all of us share the same story that we are blessed with the invention of such machines.

Laptop computers offer mobility. Designed to work on batteries and direct electricity from wall outlets these are truly advantageous for someone who is always on the go. Who would want to bring a desktop on a plane? Without laptops monitoring businesses miles away would be difficult. This feature of a laptop gives us the freedom and ability to use computers anywhere. Be it in a restaurant, in a car or places we feel comfortable, we can use laptops as long as we do not disturb others and go beyond rules.

Unlike desktop computers, laptop computers are compact and may contain features that an ordinary computer set may not have. Built-in camera, speakers, Bluetooth, WiFi device, and infrared are among the features you would not normally see on desktop computers. All these features when added to a desktop computer require individual purchases and manually installation for both hardware and software.

What makes it more exciting is the processing power that laptop computers offer. Do you think laptops can give you the computing power you see while using desktop computer, considering the size and weight of a laptop? I tell! You will definitely get the same computing power. Though built in smaller sizes, architecture and components in laptops are similar to what desktop computers are made of. If Intel Core Duo can be used to run desktop computers, then it can also be used to run laptop computers. Size does actually matter, but this does not affect the performance it provides.

There may be differences with some features such as the display, but both offer good qualities. Laptop computers also save a lot of energy. Display for a laptop does not require that much electricity compared to CRT or LCD monitors for desktops. Since it's designed to work with batteries, one can still have the convenience of working even without the presence of electricity coming from the wall outlet.

Newest addition to the family of mobile computing is the ultra portable laptop or tablet. These super small and powerful computers have emerged to revolutionize computing. Providing extra convenience in mobility because of its size, this type of laptop is ideal for individuals who are also on the go. Aside from its tiny feature this comes into affordable prices that anyone can afford. Teachers wanting to use a different medium in teaching can use these devices. Buying these ultra portable laptops does not hurt someone's budget.

LoJack Serves and Protects Your Laptop Computer

An unlocked office, a head turned at a busy airport, a smashed trunk and a computer is gone. According to FBI statistics a computer is stolen every 53 seconds. Computer left is the second leading form of theft. It follows, and goes hand and hand with, identity theft. A stolen computer means complete access to your confidential information.

Identity theft is a major concern for victims of computer theft but their first concern is often will I get my computer back?

As only 3% of stolen computers are ever recovered through traditional law enforcement means, it is a legitimate question.

"How Can You Improve the Odds?"

Absolute software is offering LoJack for Laptops, a stolen computer recovery service that works for desk tops as well as laptops. Absolute reports a 90% recovery rate for stolen computers with LoJack. When a computer is stolen, users can call Absolute Software's 800 number or go to another computer to report it on line. The computer goes onto Absolute Software's "most wanted" list.

Absolute can determine the location of your computer as it "checks in." If a computer thief uses your computer to go on line using a dial-up modem, Absolute can access the phone number and trace the address. If the thief uses a broadband connection, Absolute can track the IP address and locate a street address with cooperation from the internet service provider. Then LoJack's recovery team, made up of all ex-cops, then connects with local law enforcement and informs them of the location of the stolen laptop.

This has been one issue that has concerned users. Will local law enforcement follow up? A representative from Absolute shared that they initially had this concern as well but have found law enforcement to be very supportive. He explains, "Property theft is a situation where they don't get a lot of success. But this is stolen property with a built-in electronic tip where it's located. They also realized that, in 5% of the cases, the location they go to other criminal activity is taking place." Recently police in McKinney, Texas recovered a stolen laptop from a chop shop and found drugs and weapons as well.

But how can LoJack protect users from Identity Theft?

In seconds, LoJack, with your instruction and permission, can wipe clean your hard drive or any of the software and data from your computer.

The Low Down on LoJack

• It's available at CompUSA. (Absolute Software says they hope to add new retailers this year.)
• LoJack is $49.99 for a year or $99.00 for three years of protection.
• LoJack comes on a disc.
• Users install it on their computer and then call the 800 number.

The monitoring office will tell you right away where your computer is located. It's pretty cool.

Not yet, for Mac Users

Currently there is a corporate version of LoJack available for Macs but not a consumer version. Absolute says that this is in the works.

LoJack is a new tool in the battle against stolen computers and identity theft. If you are the one to find your laptop missing from the office, the airport or the trunk of your car, what will be the odds that you will get it back? Will there be a 3% or a 90% percent chance that you'll see your computer again? Will a thief have not just your laptop but all of your financial information too? It's something to think about.

Lisa Carey

Laptop Computer Bags Come in All Shapes and Sizes

If you have a laptop, and almost every business person and student does, you need a good laptop bag or case. And if you travel for a living, then you know this is one of the most essential items you can have to keep your laptop safe and secure.

Of course the days of having a simple black or blue laptop bag, (while still available) have long since been surpassed by designer computer bags. The designer computer/laptop bags are a way for the fashion conscious to make a statement, while still keeping their possessions and laptop safe and secure. Most of these designer laptop bags are constructed with a thick durable neoprene rubber that will give your laptop the greatest protection.

What you'll need to make certain of is whether your brand of laptop fits snugly inside, allowing the thick cushioning to do its job. When you accomplish that not only will your laptop be well protected (the most important point), but you'll also be expressing yourself, saying look at this bag, it's a reflection of who I am.

Some of the best computer bags will blend the functionality of a messenger bag (made famous by those crazy bike messengers in New York) with the practicality of a laptop computer bag. Perhaps if we look back in time, the current designer bags owe a lot to those early messengers, who were unique deliverers of messages and documents across the many cities.

To survive as a messenger, you had to be a unique individual, and many displayed their uniqueness on their bags; and now you can do exactly the same with a unique and different computer bag. The one thing every good computer bag should have in common, is the ability to protect what's inside, other than that how it looks is completely up to you. Personalize it to your own satisfaction, with distinctive patches, emblems or something personal, it's your bag, make it say so.

Of course, when we've narrowed our search for the perfect computer bag, it should be one with plenty of room your accessories; pens, papers, wallets, PDAs, cell phones, or whatever. Basically when you find the right computer bag you'll find something akin to a friend, something that represents and protects you and yours with style.

Now let's turn away from style to the more practical side of computer bags. Do you travel extensively, climbing on and off airplanes several times a week? If so then you might consider a hard-shell computer case, or possibly a backpack. By backpack were not thinking of hiking, but something that can contain everything you need (obviously your laptop) to get from point A, point B, and conduct business, no matter what it is or where in the world you find yourself.

Laptops and computer bags are as much a part of our landscape, as a good pair of shoes. Obviously, we want a pair of shoes that are both distinctive and durable; reflecting not only who we are, but how we planned to do it. If you use this same line of thinking, you'll find the perfect computer bag for you. The choices are many and varied, but with a few clicks of your mouse, you can easily find what the perfect computer bag.

June_Carr

How to Choose a Laptop Computer

Laptops are an increasingly popular product catering to professionals and casual users alike. However, it can be very difficult choosing which laptop is good for you and with so many specifications, as well as such a variety of choice, picking the right one can be a very difficult task. This short guide aims to help show you how to choose a laptop computer.

Think about your needs

Some people may think they need a laptop when really a desktop PC would do just as well. The benefit of buying a desktop over a laptop is price - desktops are far cheaper. However, if you need something portable then a laptop is the definitive solution.

It's important to take the time to work out what you really need to get from your laptop. There's no point in spending $2000 on a top of the range laptop when all you need to do is check emails on it.

If your needs are primarily checking emails and writing documents then a low cost laptop will be all you need. If you plan to watch movies and burn files to disk then a middle-range laptop would suit you better. Top of the range laptops are only really necessary for playing games with advanced graphics or for handling programs which need a lot of computer power such as graphical design packages.

Important features

The key features of a laptop are its battery life, processor speed, RAM memory, and hard drive storage capacity. A DVD player/burner is another popular feature, as well as the size and weight. Finally, in high end laptops graphics cards are also important. You may also want to take note of whether MS Office applications (or equivalent) are bundled with the computer or not if you intend to create written documents.

Buying the laptop

It's really important to shop around when you look for a laptop. Deals vary greatly from place to place, but as a general rule the Internet is a great place to start your search.

Michael Johnson