Understanding Different Kinds of Computer Hardware
Different kinds of hardware have their different levels of importance, but before we delve into the types we need to first look at the term itself and understand what it means. Computer hardware simply put is the physical component of the computer. For you to be able to be reading this right now means that your computer has the physical components required for the software or programmes to work.
We will discuss briefly some of the different kinds of hardware that you will most commonly encounter such as:
o The Circuit Board or Mother Board: This is where the main processor of your computer is located and it is on this component that most other hardware feed off.
o The Hard drive: This is your computer store house, so in other words this is where the data that helps your computer to function properly are kept. Data that you generate as you use your computer are also stored here.
o The Cd/Dvd Drive: This is also another kind of storage facility that supports a different kind of data and storage type.
o The Cooling fan: This is often times located on the top of your mother board/circuit board, and just as the name suggests serves as a coolant. When your computer is on it generates heat just like the engine of your car and it is this cooling fan that is tasked with making sure the computer does not get over heated.
o The Memory Chip: This is yet again another part of your computer brain that handles information stores information needed for the proper functioning of your computer. This also supports the general speed of your computer…so a small memory means a slow computer.
o Keyboard & Mouse: This is the component of your computer that helps you with the input of data (such as typing) and navigation. So in other words this is the means for communicating with your computer.
Listed above are some of the different kinds of hardware that you are likely to encounter more often, but there are lots of other hardware that might not be directly a part of your computer but is used along side your computer and attached by means of an external source. So if you do not have proper computer hardware you will naturally find it impossible to install software or run a program on your computer.
Optimum performance of your computer is dependent on the type of hardware you are using. These different kinds of hardware affect affects the computer in diverse ways, but the circuit board has the most influence on the speed of your computer…why? Because like I mentioned earlier the other components mostly feed off the circuit board so if the circuit is rubbish there is a tendency for your computer output to be rubbish.
Most computer hardware can be upgraded as individual components, which means if for instance you notice that your storage space is getting smaller you can purchase an extra hard drive to back up the first one or you can completely change the hard drive for another.
The Introduction to Joysticks For PC
Most games for PC can be played using simple mouse and ordinary computer keyboard: if you are a simple, average gamer, that is. But if you are a serious and hardcore gamer, those peripherals are not enough. That is why manufacturers created and developed different gaming tools to provide more fun and real-life experience. And one of these great tools is the joystick.
Joysticks are usually compatible with game consoles like X-Box or Play Station, but they were redesigned to be compatible with computers as well. Joysticks for PC are used for arcade-like games and flight simulation games. Different joystick models are designed to fit specific game types.
When choosing a stick for your computer, determine first what kind of device you need. Think about the games you are usually playing. So, if your games that require joystick controlling, you are in the right direction.
Next is the features and design of the controller: hot keys, throttle, trigger, etc. Different manufacturers created different PC joysticks, so be keen but diligent. And lastly determine how much you are willing to spend and stick to your budget. Ordinary PC game joystick can go for as low as $20 while high-end PC joystick can cost as much as $300. Most of the time the extra features on the joystick means additional bucks. So again, ask yourself what you really need. Will you go for quality, brand name or features? Always check if the game control device is compatible with your machine and that your computer meets the minimum requirements for the joystick. If you do all those things, you will surely not waste your money.
There are different brands of computer game controllers available in today’s market. One of the most talked about is the Microsoft Sidewinder Force Feedback 2 joystick. It was the newest joystick model from Microsoft, a better adaptation of their first joystick version: rebuilt and redesigned. Force Feedback 2 is sleeker, slimmer and lighter. It has built-in AC power supply and is USB compatible. It has a 16-bit on-board processor and digital-optical technology for close to reality flight experience. With its 16 programmable action buttons, hat switch, rotating handle and rock-solid base you will definitely enjoy and feel the game:. a bestseller then and still a bestseller now.
Another well-known brand of joystick for PC is Logitech. Logitech has been creating great gaming peripherals and their PC joysticks line is one of the best in the market. The Attack 3, Extreme 3D Pro, Freedom 2.4, Forces 3D Pro and Flight System G940 Force are gaming community’s most wanted.
Logitech Attack 3 is highly recommended for entry-level gamers because of its simple and smooth set-up and layout; although it is suitable for all gamers. Attack 3 comes with ambidextrous handle which offers comfort for both left and right handed gamers. It has eleven programmable buttons, rapid-fire trigger, force feedback mechanism and throttle control for excellent and precise gaming experience. It is compatible with PC and Macintosh computers and can be connected through USB port.
Logitech Extreme 3D Pro is design to deliver realistic gaming experience. With its twelve programmable buttons, high-precision throttle, eight-way rubber hat switch and easy-grip twist handle, accessing multiple commands is easier, faster and smoother.
Logitech Freedom 2.4 provides gaming freedom with its 2.4GHZ wireless technology that gives you gaming access within 20 feet range. Its features includes eight-way hat switch, aluminum trigger and throttle, ten programmable action buttons, twist handle and weighted, rubberized base. Logitech Freedom 2.4 is battery operated and has an ergonomic brushed-metal and rubber design. And with its tag price you will also get three “AA” batteries.
Logitech Forces 3D Pro belong to the top ten “best PC devices” list. With its improved force feedback mechanism, eight-way rubberized hat switch, high-precision throttle, twist handle and twelve programmable action buttons you will get maximum control and realistic gaming experience. Logitech Forces 3D Pro is PC and Mac compatible and can be connected through USB port.
Logitech G940 Flight Force System is not for the faint hearted. This one is definitely for hardcore gaming enthusiasts. This is crafted to look, work and feel like the real commercial and military aircraft. With its dual-throttle system, toe, breaks, force feedback mechanism, rudder pedals, programmable throttle-base buttons and light indicators, you will feel G-forces, turbulence, wind shear and buffeting within your game. Logitech G940 Flight Force System will kick your gaming experience up to ten notches. If you are a real gamer, the hefty $300 or more tag price will not be an issue.
Besides Logitech, another popular and highly rated PC joystick brand is Saitek. Saitek released four joystick models; ST90, ST50, Aviator, Cyborg X and X52 Flight System.
Saitek ST90 is a perfect PC joystick for beginner. It has a unique retractable tripod design provides stability and easy storage. It is designed with four-position digital throttle, LED indicator, two fire buttons, rapid-fire trigger and single-spring gimbals mechanism for easy and fast control. And for the beginner it is quite affordable.
Saitek ST50 comes in a simple and compact design. Its features include rapid-fire trigger, force feedback system, built-in throttle, three action buttons and pistol-grip palm rest. Saitek ST50 can be connected through USB port.
Saitek Aviator belongs to the top ten “best PC devices” list. It is the first dual-throttle PC joystick released in the market. It has a rugged military design with high-quality performance and features. It comes with eight-way hat switch, rapid-fire trigger, illuminated missile fire launcher, rudder twist, two-mode switch and dual-throttle lever. Saitek Aviator uses Saitek Smart Technology (SST) that can program up to 40 commands.
Saitek Cyborg X has been around the market for ten years and still remains as one of the best selling PC joysticks. This futuristic device was design to combine cutting-edge engineering and innovative design. For superior performance, Saitek packed this Cyborg with twelve programmable action buttons, dual throttle lever, adjustable POV hat switch, tilting head mechanism, shift button, twist axis rudder and adjustable handle.
Saitek X52 Flight System is design for maximum aeronautical authenticity. It is designed with full rubber grips, part-metal construction and multifunction display. It uses Roger Wilco Chat Software and Saitek Smart Technology that can program 282 commands. Its features include toggle switch, three-way mode switch, wheel on throttle, trigger buttons, eight-way hat switch, five-way rotating handle and rudder control.
Another well-known manufacturer of joysticks and PC gaming devices is the Thrustmaster. They utilized the HOTAS system for computer flight simulation games and they have licensing agreements with prestigious brands like Ferrari, Splinter Cell, Top Gun and others. They have released five PC joystick models; USB joystick, T-Flight Stick X, T16000M, T-Flight HOTAS X and HOTAS Cougar.
Thrustmaster USB joystick is the cheapest in Thrustmaster PC joysticks line. It has simple and basic design that is perfect for entry-level gamers. It comes with basic joystick features like thumb throttle, three axis button, trigger, four action button and easy camera control.
Thrustmaster T-Flight Stick X is ergonomically designed for comfort and easy control. It features include motion-sensor function, internal memory, 12 programmable action buttons, air-break trigger, rotating handle, four axes, multidirectional hat switch, throttle lever and rapid-fire trigger. Thrustmaster T-Flight Stick X is compatible with PC and PS3 and can be connected through USB port.
Thrustmaster T16000M is a fully ambidextrous joystick that has three removable components to tailor fit both left-handed and right-handed people. This joystick has an exclusive HALLEFFECT ACCURATE TECHNOLOGY (HEART), twelve switch-enable buttons, 16 action buttons, multidirectional hat, rudder control and four axes.
Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS X comes with a detachable throttle control, wide hand rest, dual-system aerodynamic system, internal memory, 12 programmable buttons, 5 axes, high-precision stick, rapid-fire trigger, multidirectional hat, mapping buttons and break triggers. Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS X is under licensed.
Thrustmaster HOTAS Cougar is the joystick for hardcore gaming enthusiast. It is an exact replica of the legendary F-16 fighter aircraft. With 28 programmable action buttons, Foxy programming software, full metal construction and multiple hat switch. This virtually realistic PC joystick is a must-have if you have $200 to $270 to spare.
So when you have decided to treat yourself and buy your very own PC gaming devices be ready for a hunt. A hunt for the cheapest, a hunt for the best and a hunt for what you need. You can find the best PC joystick in the nearest electronic and computer store near you or you can source online. If you are not ready for high tag price but you want great deal; try some online auction or second hand store.
PC Laptop Computers – Lightweight, Powerful, and Fast
Over the past 10 years or so, computer technology has become so advanced that today satellite TV for PC is available. Watching advancement of technology is exciting, leaving most of us awestruck. In addition, we now see that PC laptop computers are affordable, which is why everyone owns at least one. Some people use laptops for business only, some complete schoolwork, and others simply enjoy playing online games. You could choose the larger laptop but if you want one that is more portable, the lightweight notebook is the ideal choice.
Some of the changes seen over the years include PC laptop computers being designed as smaller, more powerful, and faster systems that are also loaded with state-of-the-art features. Having all of this packed into a small computer makes it highly portable. Then, with a built-in mouse, keyboard, and webcam, functionality is compact. Even the battery design is unique, being made to last longer than batteries from 10 years prior. Depending on the brand and style, some PC laptop computers can also burn CDs and DVDs.
If you have a desktop, you could shop for PC laptop computers as well. With the laptop, you could take business trips, go on vacation with the family, or even head off to college while taking the computer with you. Of course, thanks to wireless technology, you can also log onto the internet from virtually anywhere. This means you could do homework in a coffee shop near campus, write a business proposal in the hotel room, or even relax in the sun by the swimming pool. With the new battery design, you can also work plugged in or unplugged without worrying about connectivity.
The PC laptop computers made today are truly amazing. With laptops now designed with less weight and available in sizes much smaller than years ago, it is easy to understand the growing demand. For instance, if you like a larger monitor, then you could purchase a 15×11 computer that comes with a 17-inch viewing screen but if you like a more compact computer, the 10×8-inch computer with a 13-inch monitor would be ideal. Then, you will even have options as far as the thickness, with sizes between 0.7 and 1.5 inches.
The one thing you will notice that has not changed is the close down lid. This is designed to protect the keyboard and monitor, as well as built-in mouse. Depending on the brand, some lids will simply close while others have a locking mechanism. Another change that is a huge benefit is the reduction of weight. With most PC laptop computers now being less than 12 pounds, taking them wherever you go is a breeze, making travel easy.
PC laptop computers, which stands for “personal computer”, means the design is for people on the go. The concept was first introduced in 1970 but it lacked sophistication. Then just two years later, the Dynabook was developed, an improvement but not by much. Even in 1982 when the Epson HX-20 and Osborne-1 were introduced, they were better but still lacking. In addition to being heavy and cumbersome, these earlier computers were very costly.
Today’s design is unique and innovative, which has helped increase the sales of PC laptop computers. Just because new computers are not as heavy, they are smaller, and the cost is lower does not mean that power and speed capabilities are compromised. As an added bonus, instead of paying $5000 or more like you would have 20 years ago, you can get a quality computer for $500 or less.
Remember, just because the price of PC laptop computers has decreased does not mean you have less power, speed, or features, in fact, it is just the opposite. Therefore, no matter the reason for using the laptop, work, school, or personal use, you will love the portability. Just having all the power and incredible features whenever and wherever needed is why PC laptop computers are so amazing.
Diagnosing Computer Hardware Faults
When your PC goes wrong and you have lost all hope the normal final stage is to reformat your computer and start afresh. This will most likely resolve any software issues, remove viruses or any other nasties and give you a clean start. But what happens if you have already reformatted and the problem still exists?
This means, most likely, you have a hardware fault. This is where problems can start.
Diagnosing a computer hardware fault can be a right pain as any of the computer components could the cause. Unless you are intending to replace the entire machine you need to carefully diagnose with what components the fault lies with.
I would advise you look at the computer into these main areas to analyse.
Memory / RAM
Power Supply
Hard Disk
Motherboard
This isn’t a complete definitive list, obviously depending on your issue ie if your issue is that you don’t get sound then it could be a sound card issue, similarly if you don’t get a display then graphics could be the culprit. If it is a random fault then either of the above could be the cause.
Memory – this is fortunately quite easy to diagnose. Search the Internet for a memory tester. Generally these can be put onto a CD (or Floppy if you are stuck in the past!!), boot up from the CD which then enters the memory test. This will constantly cycle through, testing the memory for errors. It is wise to leave this on for several hours or even better over night. It will advise you if the memory fails.
Power Supply – this can be a strange one. People generally assume that if the power supply does fail then you would get no life from you computer at all. This sometimes is not true. I have had computers that turn off at random times, computers that have the power light on, but do not start up etc and it has turned out to be the supply – I would advise this should be one of the first things to test as can be a problematic area. Testing it can be difficult without the right equipment. Really the only way is to get a volt tester and check the voltage and current coming out.
Hard Disk – this can be one of the worst problems to have as if your hard disk does fail, unless you have been sensible and done regular backups of your most valuable data, you stand to lose it all. Hard disks can go at any time and usually you will hear a harsh sounding clicking noise that is coming from your computer. If this is the case you need to probably replace the hard disk. Get someone who then knows what they are doing here to try and recover your old data for you.
If none of the above solves your problem then you could possibly be looking at the fault being with the motherboard or any other plug in cards or devices you have. Remove everything to leave only the very basics. Take out all sound cards etc and any other PCI devices that are not essential. If you have more than one stick of ram then leave in only one and see if the problem resolves.
Really, solving hardware issues comes down to a case of trial and error here so take the time to test everything out. Bear in mind that even if your keyboard or mouse is faulty, very strange things can happen to a computer, so if you can, try to remove and test every single item.
How to Print Screen
You have something that you want to show to someone else, per a print screen, but you have no idea exactly how to do this. Don’t worry, the riddle will be solved — just follow a few simple steps and you should be able to get your image to another person or to your printer in no time.
If you are using a Windows system, just follow these steps.
Step 1: Find the image you want to print and have it ready on the monitor.
Step 2: Locate and press the button on your keyboard called “Print Screen”. It may be abbreviated “Prt Scrn” and will usually be located above the arrow keys, and above the “Insert” key on your keyboard.
Step 3: Now open up your copy of MS Paint. All computers that have Windows will have this installed standard. If you’re having trouble finding it, the quickest way to find it is to hit “Search” and then type in “Paint”. You will see an icon appear that will say “Paint” or the program itself will open. If the icon appears, double-click on the paint icon and the program will open up.
Step 4: Now all you have to do is either hit CTRL+V on your computer or pull down the menu that says “Edit” with your mouse and select the word “Paste” from your menu. Congratulations, you’ve just printed your entire screen.
Step 5: What you have printed is your entire screen. You can crop the picture to just save what you want to show people by selecting the dashed square in the upper left hand corner of the Paint tool, then adjust the rectangle so that it creates a border around where you want to crop, and hit “Cut” from your Edit menu.
It will look like it disappeared entirely, but it’s not gone forever. You just moved it to your clipboard. Open a new document and hit “Paste” and what you had cut just a few seconds ago will appear like magic.
Step 6: If you want to save it on your computer, under the file menu is the word “Save”, and that will allow you to save your picture. You also may print this by selecting the “Print” option from the File Menu.
But what if you own a Mac? You can look from now until Kingdom Come and never find the “Print Screen” button. Again, just follow a few simple steps and you’ll be on your way in no time.
Step 1: Locate what you want to find, then press the Apple key, Shift and the 3 key at the same time. If you have sound on your card, you will hear a sound like a camera being snapped. You will also see the words “Picture 1″ on an icon somewhere on your desktop.
Step 2: If you just want a partial screen shot, then hit the Apple Key + SHIFT + 4. A cropping tool will appear where your cursor is located. Double-click the icon and then drag the cursor. Whatever is inside this box will be “Printed”. Once you have what you want to print, just release the mouse, and you will hear the “snapshot” sound that I described in Step 1.
Step 3: You can also use the Applications Print Screen. If you are here and hit the Apple Key + SHIFT + 4, the same cropping tool should appear. If you hit the space bar, it will turn into a camera. You can move the camera around using your mouse. As the camera goes over an application, it will turn blue. Click on the application you want (that is, when it’s blue) and the “snapshot” sound will again be heard.
Step 4: If you want to print your screen, just hit the Apple Key + P, for print, and it will print off your work.
Tip for saving: If you get a chance to choose your file format, the most economical as far as drive space is “.jpg” or “.jpeg”, this will save it as a much clearer image and sharper color than a.gif, which is better for animated files, and a.bmp which is higher quality, but takes up much more disk space. To select the file format on a Windows computer, Select the “Save” Menu. Below the name, it will tell you what the current file format is. It should default to a JPEG file. If it does not, pull the arrow on the right hand side and select.jpg format and then save it as this.
On MAC OS 10.4, the default is.png, but you can save it as a.jpg every time by selecting it or changing it in Terminal if you type in the following code:
“defaults write com.apple.screencapture type jpg
Killall SystemUIServer”
Doing this should save all your pictures on a MAC as.jpg files.
Things About ITE Power Supply
ITE stands for “Information Technology Equipment.” These devices are simple cords and plugs that one can purchase for a variety of computer or electrical equipment. Now, knowing that there are other plugging accessories out in the market can put one’s mind at ease. Plugs do not seem to have a very long lifespan. Especially if someone trips over and breaks one, a cat chews one in half or a shortage burns it out. A demand of power supply plug will always be around.
ITE power unit accessories range from a variety of plugging extensions for a variety of devices. What makes ITE power unit stand above the rest is that they have a great selection. Just about any plug or cord for any device can be found in their gallery. They cover many brands in their gallery and they do not discriminate against anyone.They also supports the kind of energy that your device needs. With their sturdy plastic coating they can have a long lifespan if properly handled. I.T.E power supply is the benchmark to when it comes to having reliable plugs for your equipment. Without proper power supply flowing through the veins of your computers, a single power surge can wipe out all of your hard earned work.
They have many accessories to choose from. Such items that are on the list are; GigaWare 126-160 ITE Power unit, Cyber Power CPSA0526 ITE Power Supply and the ASTEC A5BHTN00102471 ITE Power unit. Now, all of these cords are manufactured to be with various name brand equipment, however since they are all made from ITE it can be assured that they will be a worthy purchase. Power supply for your household products is essential for proper use and longevity. Too much isn’t good if your devices as well as not having any power at all. This is where ITE power supply is known to be best at. The plugs that are produce regulate the flow of power that comes from the outlet on your wall to your computer and other items. Power supply can be a dangerous thing if not treated with respect. It can be harmful to you, your house as well as your devices. This is why ITE treats these products with respect as well as their customers. Power is something that, even though is hard to live without, can be taken away very easily.
Power supply from ITE needs to be considered when looking for a good selection of hardware. With so many to choose form there is something for everybody. This is the standard when it comes to ITE, making everybody happy. If you’re not happy they’re not happy too. This goes both ways between them and their products.
Advantages of Wireless (Wi-Fi) Networks Over Wired LAN Networks
Have you ever thought of having an all wireless office? Do you think it is not possible at this point/ it is not practical? If your answer to that question is yes, then you need to read this article for sure.
Let us look at the reverse situation first: What could possibly be the advantages of wired networks over wireless networks? Well, the immediate points that comes to our mind could be the following:
1. Speed. Wireless networks are considered to be slow and having a low bandwidth.
2. Real time applications. Wireless networks cannot handle real time applications like voice and video.
3. Security. The wireless signals reach even across the road. What if someone hacks in to my network?
4. Incompatibility: Certain devices like printers etc. are not Wi-Fi enabled. The PC does not have Wi-Fi cards.
Let us look at each point individually (I am writing this article in the point of view of an enterprise/office network, and hence I am assuming that the Wi-Fi network is built using Wireless Controllers, Access Points and Management Software)
Speed:
Wired networks had a decent speed of 100 Mbps and these days have a speed of 1000 Mbps. Wireless networks only have a speed of 54 Mbps and that too is shared among many users.
Give me one application which would take up 1000 Mbps per port, or even 100 Mbps per port and then probably I could accept the above statement. The fact is, even if your office runs demanding applications like multimedia, ERP, video etc, the maximum bandwidth requirement per user may not cross even 4 Mbps! Now take the 54 Mbps of Wi-Fi networks and assume that 15 people are connecting to it, each user may get around 2.5 Mbps, which is sufficient for most of the applications that we have today, and if all the 15 users don’t connect at the same time, a single user might get even more bandwidth. In fact, with the advent of 802.11n standard for Wi-Fi, the bandwidth available per access point is around 300 Mbps and will touch 600 Mbps in the near future. So, even if 15 people connect with one 802.11n access point, they might get in excess of 20 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for most of the applications on the network today.
Real Time Applications:
What if I run PC based video conferencing in my company? Can the wireless networks handle real time traffic?
A decent video conferencing client may not take more than 256-384 Kbps for giving 30 f/s quality video with H.264 compression. How many such conferences are going to happen simultaneously? And real time applications run very well if your wireless controller can support WMM – Wireless Multi Media protocol which prioritize the real time traffic over the normal traffic, and most of the controllers today support it. Even voice is supported on the wireless LAN – including the seamless handover from one AP to another, if you are carrying the VoWLAN handsets. There is an interesting technology that is growing fast, which is called FMC – Fixed Mobile Convergence where your IP Phones and Cell phones can be integrated with a single mobile handset and you have one number for both. Though IP Land line Phones are not supported by Wireless Networks, such innovations (Like FMC and VoWLAN handsets for voice over wireless LAN) help include additional features as well as give the basic service much more efficiently.
Security
The wireless signals can penetrate the walls and in fact go across the road – what if some one hacks my network?
This is a valid concern. The security is compromised if your wireless communications are not encrypted with the latest standards and proper security policies are not applied. But if the security policies are applied according to the latest standards (like 802.11i etc), then the chances of breaking the network from outside is very less. Also, there are Wireless Intrusion prevention software’s that are available in the market these days which keep scanning for wireless threats and intrusions and they notify or even thwart attempts to intrude in to your wireless network automatically.
Incompatibility:
There are certain devices that are not yet Wi-Fi compatible – like certain printers, fax machines etc. But you will be surprised at how many devices are Wi-Fi compliant and have commercially ready Wi-Fi based products already – Surveillance Cameras, Multi-Function Devices, Access Control Card readers, Laptops, Projectors and almost every network based device has a Wi-Fi compliant model. Even if certain products are not Wi-Fi compliant, cables could be drawn selectively for those applications alone, instead of wiring the whole office with three ports per cubicle! In fact, Wireless Access Points need to be connected to LAN cables at the back end, so a limited number of wired switch ports is anyway required. And there are always USB based Wi-Fi adaptors that can be used to make a desktop computer (PC) wireless.
So, having established that wired networks are not inherently superior to current generation wireless networks, let us now look at the additional advantages that wireless networks provide over wired networks :
Less Cost – Saving not only in the quantity of cables, switch ports required but also in the cost of passive components.
Comfort and Mobility – The wireless networks are accessible anywhere – even in the canteen and the lawn. All you need is a Wi-Fi enabled laptop to access them. And the users can connect to the network from anywhere – cubicles, conference rooms, lawns etc.
Redundancy: If an Access Point fails, another neighbouring access point can automatically connect the users (without having to change the port connection manually like in wired networks).
Network access control, AD integration: The centralized management functionality of the wired networks using Active Directory (or LDAP etc) is available with most of the wireless networks today. In fact, controller based wireless networks can also provide network access control – grouping the users and deciding which users have access to which resources in the network (Restricting certain users from accessing the internet, etc).
Load balancing: The access points can automatically push the users to neighbouring access points if they are overloaded. Some controllers even allow to restrict the bandwidth that a single user/group can access in the LAN, so that they don’t overload the network.
There are many more, but if you want to discuss further on the same or on any particular topic, hop over to our blog. There is a whole category on wireless networks!
Troubleshooting Computer Freeze (Lockup) Problems
How familiar does the following sound? Your computer was working fine, but then suddenly started locking up (aka hanging or freezing), rebooting itself (crashing) or shutting down spontaneously? If you know only too well what I am talking about, then read on! Performing the simple steps below can fix the majority of lockup cases.
1. Check for recently installed software or hardware.
If the lockups started to happen after you installed a new peace of hardware, new software program, or new drivers, uninstall it and see if the problem goes away.
2. Run your antivirus program.
One of the first things to do in the case of sudden lockups is to run your antivirus program. Check your antivirus manufacturer’s website for updates and latest virus definition files. (This is absolutely necessary, outdated antivirus is not going to be of any use!) If you don’t have antivirus software installed – or if updates are unavailable – run one of the web-based antivirus scans that some major antivirus vendors like Trend Micro are offering for free. You can find a comprehensive list of available web-based scans and free antivirus programs on http://www.free-antivirus.info.
3. Run some good spyware removal tool.
If your machine is not infected with any viruses, it is still possible that it has some harmful adware or spyware is present. Download and run some good spyware removal tool such as AdAware or Microsoft AntiSpyware. Check http://www.free-antivirus.info for a list of free spyware removal applications.
4. Check for free hard drive space.
When no viruses are found, check out free hard drive space on drive C:. Make sure there is more than 20% of free space available; low disk space can lead to random lockups.
5. Check for overheating.
Overheating is another known cause of lockups. It can be caused by problems with fans inside the case, dust buildup, or other cooling problems. Make sure the power supply fan and CPU fan are running and free of dust buildup. You can check the temperatures inside the case by running Motherboard monitor
http://mbm.livewiredev.com
- make sure the temperatures are within the preset limits. Be very careful while cleaning inside the computer case (use plastic vacuum crevice tool) and NEVER OPEN THE POWER SUPPLY CASE as it contains high voltage.
6. Check the hard disk.
Check the hard disk – it is possible that its logical structure is corrupted. To check the disk for errors, right-click on the disk C: icon in “My Computer”, select the “Tools” tab, check all check boxes in the “Check disk options” field, and press the “Check now” button. It should ask whether you want to schedule the check next time you restart your computer – answer “Yes” and restart your PC. The check will be performed automatically after startup; it can take a while, so be patient. The program will attempt to fix some problems automatically – however, if the hard disk is failing physically, it will need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to run Disk Defragmenter (located in Start Menu > Programs > Accessories > System Tools) to optimize data placement on the hard disk for increased performance and reliability.
7. Check the memory.
Sometimes random lockups can be attributed to the computer memory (RAM) starting to fail. You can test the memory by running Windows Memory Diagnostic that can be downloaded from http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp. If memory problems are found, try re-seating the RAM (pull it out and plug it back in). If it doesn’t work, replace the defective RAM.
8. Check for other hardware problems (advanced users).
More hardware-related problems can be diagnosed by running hardware tests from the Ultimate Boot CD that can be downloaded from http://www.ultimatebootcd.com. However, you should only use it if you know what are you doing – some programs on that CD can be dangerous when used inappropriately (for example, some of them can wipe the contents of your hard disk).
9. Update Windows and drivers.
Some lockups can be caused by outdated software components – update your windows and drives by running a windows update: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com (it’s good idea to run it regularly).
The above steps will help diagnose and eliminate the most common causes of lockups. Hundreds more of other possible scenarios need to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, as it all goes down to your particular computer configuration. Asking on PC
troubleshooting forums/newsgroups should help you figure out solutions to not-so-obvious lockup cases.
Latest Technology in Computer Hardware
The rate at which new computer hardware products are arriving in the market is simply mind-boggling. As the technology advances, the size and the price of the devices come down, while the efficiency and capacity increase. The scenario is same in all cases, whether it is about internal components like processor, motherboard, RAM, graphics card, and hard disk or for peripheral accessories like mouse, keyboard, and monitors. Personal computers became popular only before about three decades back. But already there are huge piles of outdated and antique hardware components and devices. This is a tribute to the tremendous rate of development of latest technologies in computer hardware field. Perhaps, the newest entrant into the archeological catalogue of computer peripherals is CRT monitors. The sleek looking LCD monitors are spreading like computer virus.
Data storage devices have attracted considerable attention of the technology developers. New kinds of storage devices such as newer versions of flash memory cards, hard disks using latest technology and disks of ever-increasing capacity are the results of advancement in latest technology in compute hardware. The memory size of the random access memory (RAM) cards is soaring to enable the smooth functioning of graphics animation software packages and streaming video websites. Also, computer motherboards have undergone substantial changes over the years. More and more functions are being added to the motherboard. Also, despite the incredible improvement in performance and functionalities, the price of these components has actually fallen steadily.
The most vital component of a computer is the microprocessor. It is in this field that a battle of developing latest technologies in computer hardware takes place. The pace of development of microprocessor increases as the competition between the major processor chip manufacturing companies, Intel and AMD, intensifies. Both the companies are engaging in a neck and neck competition and continuously outdo each other in introducing new technologies.
In the field of computer peripherals, the latest technology in computer hardware is in developing yet another version of wireless mouse and keyboard. The concept of wireless mouse and keyboard is about a decade old. But the development of these items is still a work in progress. The latest products of wireless mouse and keyboard are said to be highly durable and error free.
Some of the developments in the latest technology in computer hardware are gearing up for changing the present concept of desktop and laptop computers. With new developments making possible the convergence of mobile phone technology and computers, a new breed of fully functional palm-top computers are going to be introduced in near future. With touch screen monitors and without the need for a mouse, these gadgets are likely to become the next big leap in the constantly leaping technological development field.
Why is My Mouse Freezing? – A Guide to Fix Mouse Freezes
Have you been asking – why is my mouse freezing? Mouse freezes are actually a pretty common problem. Typically they come in two forms. The first is that the mouse icon freezes or locks up but you can still move it around. The other kind is the mouse freezes and the whole computer seems to lock up with it. Both are symptoms of the same problem.
Before doing anything, take a look at how many programs you have open when your mouse freezes up. If you are running multiple programs at once and have limited RAM, this can be a major cause of mouse freezing. The solution is either run fewer programs or simply purchase additional RAM.
You also want to make sure your mouse drivers are up to date. In these cases simply go to the manufacturer website and check for any driver updates you may have missed out on.
But the most common cause of mouse freezing is due to errors in the Windows registry. The registry contains settings and commands that are utilized by the mouse to run properly. When there are errors in the registry this can cause a breakdown in the communication between your mouse and system. When your computer cannot communicate properly it will lock up or freeze.
Unfortunately there is no way to manually fix this problem. The registry is an extremely complex directory that is also sensitive to alterations. If you adjust or remove the wrong registry files your entire system can collapse.
This is why I highly recommend scanning your computer with a top flight registry cleaner. Not only can it fix mouse freezing, it will also speed up your computer considerably. So stop asking why is my mouse freezing. Scan your computer for free below and fix the problem today.