PC Tools Spyware Doctor 2010 latest version 3 PC 1 Year

Lighten Up

Easily travels by your side, weighing approximately 1.385kg and measuring only 1" thin.
Experience true mobility with up to 6 hours and 39 minutes1 of battery life with 6 cell battery.
Huge storage – Up to 320GB2 Hard Drive = 5,900 hrs of music or 500 hrs of video.
Personalise with your choice of 7 colours.

Inspiron 11z Laptop

Lighten Up
Introducing the InspironTM 11z, Dell’s newest thin and light Inspiron laptop.

Easily travels by your side, weighing approximately 1.385kg and measuring only 1" thin.
Experience true mobility with up to 6 hours and 39 minutes1 of battery life with 6 cell battery.
Huge storage – Up to 320GB2 Hard Drive = 5,900 hrs of music or 500 hrs of video.
Personalise with your choice of 7 colours.

ooo...

Apple iMac Intel Core 2 Duo 24" Desktop - Customizable

Sony's high-powered multimedia business machine is compelling; but when fully loaded, it costs as much as a used car.

Everyone talks about the Apple tax - the premium you're paying for an Apple product. The same could technically be said for some of Sony's more uniquely designed notebooks, like the Sony VAIO VGN-Z598U. This ultraportable class starts at $1,499, but our review unit balloons up to the eye-bulgingly-high price tag of $4,450. If money is no object (yeah, as if that's the case these days), then by all means, scoop up this overstuffed, lightweight beauty.

*
Would You Buy This?
* 84Yes
* 75No

Sony VGN-Z598U/B Test Scores

* Overall 84
* Performance 89
* Features 80
* Design 84

Full Test Report »

*
Before You Buy
* How to Buy a Laptop
* How to Buy a Netbook
* Top All-Purpose Laptops
* Top Power Laptops
* Top Ultraportable Laptops

Got a Hot Tip?
Seen news about this product? Send us a link.

Primary responsibility for the sticker shock goes to a pair of 128GB solid-state drives, which jacked up the original price by roughly two grand. But our test unit also jams a 2.53-GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P9500 CPU, 4GB of RAM, and a dedicated nVidia GeForce 9300M GS GPU into its tiny 12.4- by 1.3- by 8.3-inch frame.

The twin SSDs probably contributed to the VGN-Z598U's eye-opening WorldBench 6 score of 107, the highest we've seen from an ultraportable. The next-fastest competitor in this class is the Asus U6V, with a mark of 93. And yet despite its powerful configuration, the VGN-Z598U weighs only about 3.3 pounds (4.2 pounds including the power brick).

In stamina mode, the VGN-Z598U switches from its nVidia GeForce 9300M GS graphics to its integrated Intel GPU), to prolong its battery life. Working with the integrated GPU, the laptop runs for 4 hours, 46 minutes--not bad, but far below the figure of almost 9 hours for the Lenovo ThinkPad X200. And unlike with a certain Mac-flavored machine, you can toggle between modes without either enduring a full system reboot or having to log out first.

The first thing you'll notice upon lifting the lid of this VAIO is its beautifully backlit 13.1-inch wide-screen display. Even in direct sunlight, the LED image at its native 1600-by-900-pixel native resolution is crisp and clear. And the wide-screen design is great for positioning documents side-by-side and for watching movies at a 16:10 aspect ratio. Not coincidentally, the VGN-Z598U also houses an optional Blu-ray drive.

As on other high-end Sony models, the VGN-Z598U incorporates a cutout keyboard, in which the keys pop out through holes in the case. The design creates good key spacing between buttons and promotes solid tactile feedback. The only extra buttons on the keyboard are a large disc-eject button, a couple of programmable shortcut buttons that by default launch a presentation mode and Windows Meeting Space, and a performance toggle for switching between the integrated Intel GPU and the GeForce 9300GS chip. The mouse is suitably large and sensitive, but its two slim mouse buttons (with a fingerprint scanner between them) are like two landing strips for gnats. At least the buttons are firm and well-built.

The laptop's layout is clean and simple, though some of its features are just a tad skimpy. Among the positives are two USB 2.0 ports, a four-pin FireWire jack, and a PC Express card slot. High-end A/V-heads will appreciate the unit's HDMI output, too. Though a Blu-ray drive is a configuration option, the base model comes with a modest VGA port.

Sony's suffers from the same problem Like most ultraportables, the VGN-Z598U has a rather puny sound system consisting of two tiny, tinny speakers and no subwoofer. On the bright side, it does get loud enough to distract cubicle neighbors (sorry, mate!) or fill up a small room. Of course, most of the time you'll want to use headphones anyway.

Preloaded software includes Microsoft Works, a video content exporter, a basic video-editing program, and the VAIO Control Center (which quickly breaks down all of the vital chores you're likely to need instant access to on your computer.

High-flying businessfolk will have little to complain about with the VGN-Z598U in its fanciest configuration--except its price. And you can trim $2000 off that scary number ($4450) by opting for a platter-based hard drive in place of the dual SSDs. Or you might want to cast your eye toward Samsung's tweener (part ultraportable, part all-purpose notebook)

Nowadays that the number of laptop computers has increased and it is getting really ordinary to see someone with a laptop, often with one like yours. What can you do when you are in a room full of people with laptops, some of them like yours, how would you tell them apart.

Well the solution is not that hard as you think. Lately, laptop covers became more and more appreciated by people, and there is no wonder why. Who wouldn’t want their laptop customized, looking exactly as they want.

laptop-covers

Besides the great looks the laptop covers Keeps your laptop free from liquid spills, dust, food, oil grease, sand, moisture, children, pets, your home, work environment and bacterias.

On different sites you can find hundreds of tight custom eSkin designs to choose from for decorating music players and notebook computers. You can choose from your favorite themes like hobbies, interests and hangouts to customize your laptop or MP3 Player and set yourself apart from all your friends.

Some companies make custom covers for your laptop that are custom molded for very custom precise fit. They are made made of high tech Polyurethane 100% latex free.
laptop-covers2

The installation of one of these things takes just a few minutes and they stay firmly in place at all times even when lid is closed. They do not slip and slide around like the universal silicone covers.

These laptop covers can also be great as gifts as there are many companies that customizes laptop covers. You just got to give them a picture and they can transform it into a cool custom laptop cover.

Mini 10 & Mini 10v Netbooks

Meet the Mini 10 and Mini 10v
The Mini 10 and Mini 10v are everything you want in a mobile companion and more. They may be small, but you’ll be surprised by all the fun features packed inside.

* Be productive with a keyboard 92% the size of a traditional laptop keyboard.
* Enjoy a beautiful view with a seamless display surface1 and 16:9 aspect ratio.
* Stay connected2 with advanced wireless options.
* Navigate like a pro with optional built-in GPS3.
* Learn about the differences between the Mini 10 & Mini 10v.

Norton AntiVirus 2009, one year

Get fast, continuous protection against viruses, spyware, worms, bots, and other malicious threats with Norton AntiVirus 2009. It protects your system without slowing you down. Rapid pulse updates every 5 to 15 minutes and an innovative new architecture dramatically improve performance and help ensure that you're protected from new threats.

* Stop viruses, worms, spyware, bots, and more
* Get innovative, intelligence-driven technology for faster and fewer scans with Norton Insight
* Detect and eliminate new threats every 5 to 15 minutes
* Feel secure in your communications: prevent the spread of virus-infected e-mail and instant messages
* Block browser exploits and protect against infected Web sites
* Get multilayered security through the new Norton Protection System
* Prevent bots from taking control of your PC (new feature)
* Automatically schedule scans and updates for when the PC is idle (new feature)
* Review the security status of every process on your PC (new feature)
* Ensure that movies and games aren't interrupted with a new Silent mode
* Get a year of protection for one PC
* Get questions answered toll-free, 24 x 7, or via e-mail in as little time as an hour
* Warranty: one-year limited
* Compatibility: Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic/Home Premium/Business/Ultimate, Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2 Home/XP Pro/XP Media Center Edition, 300MHz or faster processor, 256MB of RAM, 150MB available hard disk space; e-mail scanning supported for POP3- and SMTP-compatible e-mail clients; browser support for Browser Protection feature: Microsoft Internet Explorer 32-bit 6.0 or higher, Mozilla Firefox 2.0 or higher, Supported instant messaging clients: AOL, Yahoo!, Microsoft, Trillian

pc

HP w1858 18.5-inch Diagonal 16:9 HD Ready Widescreen Monitor
HP w1858 18.5-inch Diagonal 16:9 HD Ready Widescreen Monitor


4.1 out of 5 4.1 out of 5

Read 7 reviews | Write a review

* • 16:9 aspect ratio for optimal viewing of movies, photos, games
* • Brightview technology for reduced glare, sharp images
* • Resolution: 1366 x 768
* • Contrast ratio: 1000:1
* • Response time: 5 ms
* • Integrated speakers; 2W per channel
* • VGA and DVI-D inputs
* • ENERGY STAR® qualified

Kaspersky Internet Security 2010 OEM
Kaspersky Internet Security 2010 A quick look: Kaspersky Internet Security 2010 is a top-rated PC pr…
See Details
$28.79Price Drop Alert
Price Drop Alert X

from Royal Discount

A laptop is a personal computer designed for mobile use and small enough to sit on one's lap while in use.[1] A laptop integrates most of the typical components of a desktop computer, including a display, a keyboard, a pointing device (a touchpad, also known as a trackpad, and/or a pointing stick), speakers, and often including a battery, into a single small and light unit. The rechargeable battery (if present) is charged from an AC adapter and typically stores enough energy to run the laptop for two to three hours in its initial state, depending on the configuration and power management of the computer.

Laptops are usually shaped like a large notebook with thicknesses between 0.7–1.5 inches (18–38 mm) and dimensions ranging from 10x8 inches (27x22cm, 13" display) to 15x11 inches (39x28cm, 17" display) and up. Modern laptops weigh 3 to 12 pounds (1.4 to 5.4 kg); older laptops were usually heavier. Most laptops are designed in the flip form factor to protect the screen and the keyboard when closed. Modern tablet laptops have a complex joint between the keyboard housing and the display, permitting the display panel to swivel and then lay flat on the keyboard housing. They usually have a touchscreen display and some include handwriting recognition or graphics drawing capability.

Laptops were originally considered to be "a small niche market" and were thought suitable mostly for "specialized field applications" such as "the military, the Internal Revenue Service, accountants and sales representatives". But today, there are already more laptops than desktops in businesses, and laptops are becoming obligatory for student use and more popular for general use. In 2008 more laptops than desktops were sold in the US and it has been predicted that the same milestone will be reached in the worldwide market as soon as late 2009.

Inspiron 11z Laptop

Lighten Up

Introducing the Inspiron^TM 11z, Dell’s newest thin and light Inspiron laptop starting at only $399.

Easily travels by your side, weighing approximately 3 lbs.1 and measuring only 1" thin. Experience true mobility with Intel’s ultra-low-voltage processors. Store your memories as soon as they unfold with a 250GB2 hard drive. Internal optical drive not included; external optical drive optional.

Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 4000

Computer mice are easy to take for granted. Very rarely do people gloat about the power of their mouse like they would about a processor or graphics card, even if they have a nifty device like the Hillcrest Labs Loop Pointer or SideWinder X3 from Microsoft. There's nothing especially remarkable about Microsoft's newest mouse, the Wireless Mobile Mouse 4000 ($39.95 list), but there's also nothing wrong with it. This diminutive pointing device is a very competent mouse for people on the go. Just don't expect to get excited about what it can do.

Samsung Laptops. Cheap Samsung Laptop

Please also see the N310, NC10, P, Q, and the R!

	Samsung N310 Laptops
	Click here to view Samsung N310 Laptops. 3 Samsung N310 Laptops from £318.56 exc vat Click here to view only Samsung N310 Laptops | Click here to view all Samsung Laptops

	Samsung NC10 Laptops
	Click here to view Samsung NC10 Laptops. 2 Samsung NC10 Laptops from £265.00 exc vat Click here to view only Samsung NC10 Laptops | Click here to view all Samsung Laptops

Samsung P Laptops

The stylish dark grey P series is inspired by cutting edge technology that delivers the highest level of mobile computing security. The P Series consists of three very unique notebooks which are designed to meet every personal need and business requirement. Sharing a single technology platform, these have proved to offer each individual business: productivity, flexibility and also are cost efficient This series is best known for having Samsungs renowned Super Bright screens, fast striking download speeds to give you maximum productivity on the move, and not to mention the robust build quality for portable working. Discover the next generation of technology in the Samsung P Series, Experience outstanding performance and quality.

ASUS N81 Series N81Vg-X2A NoteBook Intel Core 2 Duo P8700(2.53GHz) 14" 4GB Memory 320GB HDD 7200rpm DVD Super Multi NVIDIA GeForce GT 120M

Pros: It is pretty powerful for a 14.1 inch screen for the price.
Looks stylish with its paintwork and beveled edge design.
8700 2.53 processor with 4 gig of memory should be able to handle any of the games I play currently. (AA2 & AA3, Battlefield series)
Has a solid feel with no creeks.
Runs cool, much cooler than my brothers Toshiba and my sisters HP laptops.
Bluetooth and Blu-ray is a big bonus that is included.
The express gate feature is pretty cool and may come in handy for quick access to the internet, chat, etc.
Speaker sound pretty good.

Cons: The touch pad buttons are a little loud but nothing that will bother surrounding people or me.
Does not come with Vista 64 bit to use all 4 gig of memory, but that is no biggie since I will upgrade to Windows 7 when it is shipped to me.

Other Thoughts: Overall it feels like a solid notebook. It is powerful, stylish, and sturdy. Smaller size is great for carrying to class or just around. The battery life is decent at about 4 hours on general type use. The keys feel nice and press in smoothly. The screen is very bright and clear. I actually turned the brightness down some and i may need to go down more.

Windows7- The Newest Member of Microsoft Windows Family

Windows7 previously known as Blackcomb and Vienna is the latest version of Microsoft Windows, a highly used series of computer operating systems used in millions of homes, offices, laptops, media centers etc. The operating system was supposed to be released to manufacture on July 22, 2009 and general retail launch is scheduled for October 22, 2009.


Unlike Windows Vista which was its predecessor, Windows7 intends to be more focused and an incremental and a more user friendly upgrade to the Windows series. It also aims at being fully compatible all hardware and applications which are compatible with Windows Vista. Presentations given by Microsoft in 2008, highlighted features like a new and redesigned Windows interface with new task bar, a multi touch support, improvements in performance and a home networking system known as HomeGroup . Some previous applications which were available with older version of Windows such as Windows movie maker, Windows photo gallery and Windows calendar will not be available with this version, and some will be provided separately as part of the Windows Live

Windows 7 will be available in 6 different editions, but in most countries only Home premium, Ultimate and Professional Versions will be available for retail sale. Most of the other editions will aim at the entrepreneurship market for enterprise use. Each edition will be inclusive of all features and capabilities of the edition lower than it, and with exception of the most basic version each will support 32 bit as well as 64 bit processor architecture.


The features for all editions will be stored on the users machine, regardless of the edition in use so that users who wish to upgrade to higher editions can purchase the upgrades from the internet and unlock the features of the purchased edition.

MacBook

MacBook at a glance. Visit the MacBook site
MacBook

* MacBook

With a durable polycarbonate shell and vibrant, glossy display, MacBook is eye-catching all over.

Learn about the design of MacBook
* NVIDIA

Powerful NVIDIA graphics provide outstanding performance for 3D games and applications.

Learn about the graphics in MacBook
* hard drive

MacBook comes standard with a 160GB hard drive, providing plenty of room for music, photos, videos, and more. Or upgrade to 500GB of storage.

Learn about the features of MacBook
* energy-efficient

The highly recyclable, energy-efficient MacBook is designed with the environment in mind.

Learn about MacBook and the environment

Configure your MacBook - only on the Apple Online Store.
Configurable options

* More memory
* Larger drive
* Preinstalled software

Select a base configuration above, then add options to build the MacBook that’s right for you, including:

* Memory up to 4GB
* Hard drive up to 500GB
* Mini-DVI Video Adapters
* Apple Remote

Learn more about configuring your Mac
We’ll preinstall software for you.

You can choose to have additional software preinstalled on your Mac, so it’ll be ready to use the moment you open the box.

* iWork '09iWork '09
* Final Cut ExpressFinal Cut Express 4
* Aperture 2Aperture 2
* FilemakerFileMaker 10
* Bento 2Bento 2

What’s included.
In the box
MacBook box

* MacBook
* MagSafe Power Adapter, AC wall plug, and power cord
* Lithium-polymer battery
* Display polishing cloth
* Install/restore DVDs
* Printed and electronic documentation

Included software
Mac OS X Leopard + iLife

Every Mac comes with the world’s most advanced operating system, as well as iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand, and iWeb so you can do more with your photos, movies, and music.

What is Mac OS X?

Visit the iLife '09 website

Coming soon: Mac OS X Snow Leopard

Learn about the up-to-date program for your new Mac
iLife and OS X
Just askQuestions? Just ask. Talk with a knowledgeable Apple specialist. Call 1-800-MY-APPLE
Buy your Mac with complete confidence.
The Mac Warranty
MacBook

Every Mac comes with complimentary telephone technical support within 90 days of your Mac purchase. In addition, a limited hardware warranty covers your Mac and all included accessories against defects for one year from the original purchase date.
Genius Bar

Genius Bar — Available at every Apple Retail Store, it’s the place for free advice, insight, and friendly, hands-on technical support for your Mac, iPod, iPhone, or Apple TV. Make a reservation ahead of time to guarantee your spot. Learn more about the Genius Bar at Apple Retail Stores
AppleCare Protection Plan
AppleCare Protection Plan box

Extend your technical support and hardware coverage to up to three years from the original purchase date of your Mac with the AppleCare Protection Plan. You get direct access to Apple's own experts for technical questions, and you get global repair coverage — including both parts and labor — for your Mac and select Apple peripherals.

Just $249.00 — Simply add the AppleCare Protection Plan to your order after selecting your Mac. Learn more about the AppleCare Protection Plan
AppleCare coverage
Moving from PC to Mac? Start here.

A Mac is built for the way people use computers today, both at home and at work. You can use Microsoft Office and thousands of other familiar applications — whether they’re made for Windows or Mac. Your Mac can open most documents, photos, and music files. And you never have to worry about PC viruses. Have questions? Call 1-800-MY-APPLE

Read answers to common PC-to-Mac questions

Watch these video tutorials:
Anatomy of a Mac

Anatomy
of a Mac
PC to Mac: the basics

PC to Mac:
the basics
The best way to get the most out of your new Mac.
One to One
One to One
When you purchase a One to One membership with your new Mac, we’ll help you get set up with Personal Setup, teach you all the basics with Personal Training, and guide you through Personal Projects. One to One is available only when you buy a new Mac from the Apple Online Store or an Apple Retail Store. Just $99.00 per year.

Learn more about One to One memberships
Accessories for your Mac.

The Apple Online Store offers a handpicked collection of the best accessories — all guaranteed to work with your Mac.

Shop for accessories:

* Mac software
* Printers
* Bags and notebook cases
* Displays
* Drives and storage devices
* Mice and keyboards
* Wireless accessories
* Speakers and audio products

View all Mac accessories

Your MacBook comes with drivers for hundreds of printers, cameras, mice, and other accessories. Just connect your device to an available USB 2.0, FireWire 400, or other port, and you’re good to go.
MacBook ports

Kaleidescape Loses DVD Ripping Appeal

A day after RealDVD lost a bid to allow its DVD-ripping software to be sold, a court has found for Hollywood again, ruling against Kaleidescape's DVD-ripping server.

A California state appellate court reversed a two-year-old decision by a trial court, which had heard a suit brought by the DVD Copy Control Association accusing Kaleidescape of breaching the contract governing CSS, the rights-management technology built into DVDs. That suit, initially won by Kaleidescape, had been on appeal since June, when oral arguments were heard.

The decision sends Kaleidescape back to a California trial court, where the court will re-examine the Kaleidescape case. If the company is found to be in breach of the contract, then the DVD CCA may be found to have suffered "irreparable harm," and an injunction halting sales of Kaleidescape's products may be issued.

Sony VAIO VGN-AR790U/B Laptop Computer

Product Description: Sony VAIO VGN-AR790U/B

The VAIO AR790 notebook is a multimedia powerhouse with DVR capabilities and a 17" WUXGA widescreen display with XBRITE-HiColor LCD technology. Featuring an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, the AR790 notebook is a super-powerful notebook. Watch and record in stunning Blu-ray Disc format, and even watch, record and manage cable TV content.

Product Specification: Sony VAIO VGN-AR790U/B

Processor Brand:	Intel
Processor Class:	Core 2 Duo
Processor Speed:	2.5 GHz
Mobile Technology:	Intel Centrino Duo
Installed Memory:	4 GB
Installed Video Memory:	512 MB
Hard Drive Capacity:	200 GB
Display Size:	17 in.
Display Type:	TFT active matrix
Max Battery Life:	2.5 hrs.
Wireless Technology:	Bluetooth
Operating System:	Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate
Weight:	8.4 lbs.

Acer Aspire AX3810-B3801A
Editors' Rating What the Numbers Mean We rate products on a scale of 1 to 10. Here\'s an overview of what the ratings mean. 8 to 10: Excellent These products are at the very top of their class and have few or no flaws. 6 to 7 Very Good These products are above average in almost every meaningful measure. While they may have a few minor faults, their strengths outweigh their weaknesses. 5 to 6 Mediocre These products are below average. They are functional but may have major deficiencies. 3 to 4 Inferior These products are seriously flawed and typically are not worthy of consideration. 1 to 2 Wholly Deficient These products do not work.','', 300)" onmouseout="hideddrivetip()"> 8.0 Pros Small and attractive; good performance for the price; eSATA port for speedy external storage Cons No space for additional hard drive; PC lacks DVI connector; power button is a bit difficult to press; lacks Wi-Fi Editors' Take For those looking for a small budget system (monitor included) with just the right amount of power for everyday PC tasks, Acer's Aspire AX3810-B3801A is a smart, good-looking choice.		Price (at time of review): $529 (List)

Key Specs

Processor: 2.5GHz Intel Pentium Dual Core E5200 Memory: 4GB DDR3 Storage: 320GB hard drive Optical Drive: DVD±RW Monitor: 20-inch Acer LCD Graphics: Integrated Intel X4500 Operating System: Windows Vista Home Premium (64-bit)

Review

Reviewed by: Matt Safford Review Date: August 2009

With comparatively powerful quad-core computers selling for just $500, the term "budget desktop" means something much different than it did just six months ago. But the fact is that most software still isn't capable of utilizing four processor cores. So unless you're editing or transcoding loads of video, a dual-core CPU is still enough processing muscle for everyday computing tasks. For most mainstream users, even a $500 budget PC like the Gateway SX2800-01 packs more power than necessary. That makes the $529 Acer Aspire AX3810-B3801A, which ships with a 20-inch LCD monitor, eminently appealing for students and families on a budget. We just wish this system were available at retailers other than Fry's, Radio Shack, and Rent-a-Center. The blue-backlit section on the front of the case looks great, but it also functions as the power button, and is a bit difficult to press. While its 2.5GHz dual-core processor and 4GB of DDR3 RAM won't set any speed records, this system is speedier and arguably much better looking than the $370 (sans-monitor) eMachines ET1810-03. And it's much more capable of handling Flash-based Web video and other more demanding PC tasks than nettops like the $400 eMachines EZ1601-01. We wish there were room inside the Acer for another hard drive, and we don't love the unnecessary preinstalled programs, which eat up some of the space on the 320GB drive. But considering the price and performance, these are minor annoyances. Style is one area where this Acer PC wins hands-down over other budget systems we've seen recently. The small-form-factor tower (10.4x3.9x13.9-inches) has a glossy black front face with a flip-down lower panel that conceals five USB ports, flash card slots, and FireWire and audio ports. A slice of clear plastic (which also serves as the power button) runs across the top and half of the left side of the PC's face and lights up with a pleasing blue hue when the system is powered on. Metal accents under the clear plastic give the case an understated Sci-Fi look. However, we found pressing down on the clear plastic piece to power the system on more difficult than using a traditional power button. Though we wish this system had a DVI port on the back, Media Center users with HDTVs will appreciate the HDMI port. Around back, the system offers four more USB ports, analogue and digital audio jacks, PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and an eSATA port. The latter will allow those who need more hard drive space to connect an eSATA-equipped external drive, which offers similar speed to internal drives. We were a little disappointed at the lack of a DVI port, but the VGA connector worked fine with the bundled monitor. For media junkies, an HDMI jack for connecting to an HDTV is present as well. Acer doesn't sell the bundled 20-inch (1,600x900) P205H LCD monitor on its own in America. But it is bright, clear, and quite capable for everyday use. It's slightly glossy but not nearly as reflection-prone as the screen that ships with the Gateway DX4820-02 system. We would have liked to see some side-mounted USB ports on the screen, but the five found on the front of the tower should be easy to reach, as long as you keep the PC on top of your desk. Inside the system, you won't find much room for expansion, but a few things are worth noting. A free PCI Express x16 slot will let you add a dedicated graphics card, a must for anyone wanting to play graphics-heavy games on this system. But keep in mind you'll have to buy a half-height graphics card, and the 220-Watt power supply won't likely be capable of handling one of the more powerful choices. So serious gamers should look elsewhere. A land-line modem occupies the sole PCI Express x1 slot, which is easy to remove. There are two spare RAM slots, so doubling the memory to 8GB is possible, though you'll have to first remove the DVD±RW optical drive to get to them. We would have liked to see Wi-Fi included as well, but you can easily swap the modem with an inexpensive internal card. Or if you're afraid to fiddle inside your PC, a USB Wi-Fi dongle is an even easier option. Though the 220-Watt power supply won't handle anything powerful, there's room for a half-height dedicated graphics card inside. In testing, the AX3810-B3801A couldn't keep up with quad-core systems, but it beat all other recent budget systems handily and left similarly priced Atom-powered all-in-one desktops in the dust. The Acer's 2.5GHz Pentium Dual Core E5200 processor helped it power ahead in our CPU-centric Cinebench test, scoring 5,634 on the 64-bit test, to the $370 eMachines ET1810-03's (32-bit) score of 4,186. The $500 quad-core Gateway SX2800-01, however, did much better, scoring 9,533. The Acer took 6 minutes and 12 seconds to complete our Windows Media Encoder test, a task that took the eMachines system 7 minutes and 31 seconds. The Gateway SX2800-01 again led the pack, finishing in just 4 minutes and 4 seconds. The Acer system had the top speed among the three systems on our iTunes conversion test, finishing in 3 minutes and 35 seconds, to the Gateway machine's 3 minutes and 47 seconds. The eMachines system tagged along behind, finishing in 4 minutes and 20 seconds. The $400 eMachines EZ1601-01, took 3 to 10 times longer than the Acer system on all of the above tests, which should give those considering inexpensive nettops some pause. The drop-down front panel conceals a generous amount of connectivity, including FireWire and five USB ports On our PCMark Vantage test, which takes holistic system performance into account, the Acer Aspire AX3810-B3801A's score of 3,898 lagged a fair amount behind the Gateway system's score of 4,798. But the eMachines' score of 2,671 indicates it's much less powerful, which is important, because factoring in roughly $130 for a monitor, the Acer system is only about $30 more expensive than the eMachines PC. Serious gaming isn't much of an option for any of these systems without adding a dedicated graphics card; the Acer machine managed just 10.1 frames per second (fps) on our DirectX9 Company of Heroes test, while the Gateway system with similar integrated graphics did about the same, offering 12.1fps. The eMachines ET1810-03, with its slower processor, scored just 3.1fps. While there are budget systems available with significantly more CPU muscle for those willing to spend about $100 more (when factoring in the cost of a similar monitor), the Acer Aspire AX3810-B3801A offers enough power for most users, without being sluggish on some common tasks like slightly less-expensive budget systems. At $529 with a decent 20-inch monitor, this Aspire PC is nicely priced for students and families struggling through the current economic downturn. Atom-powered nettops and other budget-priced systems offer lower prices but are much slower, incapable of handing high definition and even Web-based Flash video, and generally lack the AX3810-B3801A's good looks.

Gigabit Powerline Networking offers speedy solutions

Although we’ve always been able to see and hear in "High Definition," we think of that phrase as belonging to the 21st century. High Definition or HD devices such as television sets, Blu-Ray DVD players, digital still and video cameras are all considered to be today’s top-of-the-line consumer electronic devices. Even audio equipment and broadcast radio now have the same HD bragging rights. If you want the best technology has to offer in video and audio, it’s got to be in HD. But there’s a price to be paid for HD and while one of them is most certainly at the cash register, another is to be found within the additional bandwidth one needs to accommodate all the additional digital information that HD demands.

Moving HD content from one place to another requires a bigger "pipe" to get it there in a timely manner. For example, if you want HD content on your computer to be played on your HD TV in the living room, your wireless connection has to use the newest 802.11n standard to keep up but even that 300 megabit per second (Mbps) speed may not be fast enough, especially if there are others in your home using the wireless network at the same time. And chances are, running an Ethernet cable from the computer’s location to another room isn’t going to look very attractive. But Belkin has just come up with a solution to deliver HD without the messy wires, at least not the ones you can see. Powerline Networking is a technology that uses your home’s existing electrical wiring to deliver digital information from one room to another. Those wires are already out of sight and out of mind so why not use them to communicate?

Powerline Networking has been around for awhile now but until Belkin’s new Gigabit Powerline HD Starter Kit, the technology was sorely lacking in communication speed, the fastest of them offering only a 200 megabits per second connection rate. Belkin’s Gigabit Powerline HD Starter Kit offers a connection speed of up to 1000 Mbps which is a gigabit.

The basic Powerline Networking configuration requires two devices that each plug into any AC electrical outlet. Typically, you plug one unit into the wall next to your computer and also plug an Ethernet cable from your computer’s router into the device. The other unit plugs into an electrical outlet located in another room that’s next to a device that needs to be connected to your computer. An Ethernet cable from that device plugs into that Powerline Networking unit and you’re all set.

With gigabit deliverability, most any HD content can be easily transferred between any attached HD device. But in addition to their speed, there are two other features I like about these Powerline adapters.

The first feature is the physical shape of Belkin’s units. A Powerline Networking device must be plugged directly into the wall. You cannot plug these units into a power strip as most have some kind of surge suppression that filters out the signal these devices use to communicate with each other. Other units I’ve seen have their AC power plug located towards the middle of the device. So when you plug one into a typical AC power outlet, the body of the unit blocks the other wall power plug, rendering it useless. Belkin’s model has its AC plug located near the edge so when plugged in, it leaves the other AC plug completely accessible.

The other nice feature is built-in security. All of these devices use the same signal standard so that they can work with each other regardless of the manufacturer. The downside is that anyone with one of these devices could access your information by just plugging one in at another room. The Belkin model defeats this from happening by implementing a simple push-button security procedure. When you first power them on, you press a button on each unit which creates a coded communication between them. From then on, their information is encrypted and can only be decoded between those units. Any other units added later on will not be able to decode what is being sent. If you wish to add another unit later on, you must press the button on the original device and the button on the newly installed one before they will work together.

Belkin’s Gigabit Powerline HD Starter Kit sells for $149.99 and comes with two units to get you up and running. Life is in HD and now you can enjoy it wherever you are in your home.

Who wants to see their camera pictures on the wall?

Today, we see projectors everywhere. Rumors of projection devices being implanted in cell phones, projectors in high school class rooms, offices, and everywhere in between, show that our personal technology is on a rapid rise.

Nikon has unveiled their new camera, the S100pj, as a point-and-shoot-and-project camera. It is officially the worlds first camera with projection capability. Now pictures takers no longer need to upload their pictures to a computer in order to see a larger version than the one on the 2.7 inch LCD screen.

The projector is capable of producing a 5 to 40 inch picture, from a maximum distance of 6 feet, 6 inches at 640x480 resolution. Battery life with the projector in use is said to be 1 hour with a full charge.

The camera takes photos at 12.1 mega pixels. Zoom on the camera is only 5x so users won't be taking pictures from significant distances. It has all of Nikon's newest camera features, which include, image stabilization, motion detection, scene auto selector, and Nikon's Smart Potrait System. The S1000pj is running at $425.99 on their website.

Overall the camera is a great compact, point-and-shoot. But instead of everyone crowding over your shoulders trying to see the pictures you just took, they will be looking at the wall at a 40 inch projection of the pictures and video from the camera. Now there will be one more thing to watch when your driving past people's SUV's and vans on the freeway, kids projecting pictures onto the back of their parents seats in the car.

Stealth WPC-500F waterproof computer

We all know that electrical devices and water don’t make good friends, as whenever they meet, there tends to be flare ups as well as a possible explosive “argument” since both parties aren’t able to see eye-to-eye. Well, computers do fall under the electrical devices category, which is why the WPC-500F from Stealth Computer is different from the rest. After all, their WPC-500F is an industrial rugged machine that is waterproof, coming in a small footprint that does away with built-in fans to keep things cool. It is tough enough to operate in situations where regular computer hardware would have long ago given up the ghost. Definitely worth considering if you want something different in your home, as how many of your mates own a waterproof computer?

According to Stealth Computer, the WPC-500F offers the most environmental protection of any PC to date from the company, where it was specially created to completely sealed on all half dozen sides despite operating in the harshest of environments. This 100% water-tight computing machine is able to handle virtually anything thrown at it, including liquids, chemicals, dust and dirt intrusion, as it meets IP67/NEMA 6 environmental specifications. The internal processor will remain cool without the help of any cooling fans since it relies on advanced heat pipe technology. In addition, the rugged aluminum chassis also doubles up as a heat sink to dissipate internal heat and provide noise free operation.

Just in case you were wondering how small the WPC-500F is, it measures a mere 7.51″ x 11.37″ x 2.97″, and despite being this small, it is somewhat like one of those tiny breed dogs that tend to boast a superior bite compared to larger breeds. In fact, the WPC-500F is powered by the latest Atom processor from Intel, helping it surpass the performance of most other industrial and embedded PCs available today in the market. Prices start from $1,995 upwards when the WPC-500F hits the market later this July, and will go upwards according to the specifications you throw inside.

A Brief History of Microsoft Windows

With the newest version of Microsoft Windows, Windows 7, on its way, it's a good time to take a look back at all the different versions of Windows Microsoft has made available over the years. In this article, Easy Computer Basics, Windows 7 Edition author Michael Miller is your tour guide for 25 years of Windows: from Windows 1.0 to Windows 7.

Windows has a long history.

It's been almost 25 years since Microsoft released the first version of Windows, and more than 15 years since Windows began to dominate the personal computer desktop. Of course, given all the technological changes that have occurred in the past 25 years, today's version of Windows bears only a passing resemblance to Windows 1.0. And that's a good thing.

That first version of Windows was pretty rudimentary. Yes, it was a tad easier on the eyes than the then-reigning DOS operating system, but it wasn't any easier to use. In fact, if you didn't have a mouse—which few users did back in 1985—it was actually harder to use than DOS's type-and-enter command-line interface.

Building on work conducted at Xerox PARC labs and then adapted for the Apple Lisa and Macintosh computers, Windows was a graphical user interface that Microsoft grafted on top of its existing DOS operating system.

It was a good idea, but the first versions of Windows were clunky and didn't have a lot of native applications; for several years, Microsoft Word and Excel were the only two applications that took full advantage of the Windows interface.

Fortunately, Windows got better—and more popular. Microsoft has upgraded Windows on a fairly consistent basis over the past two decades. The company has brought out a new version of Windows every few years or so; sometimes the new version is a minor update, sometime it's a complete overhaul.

For example, Windows 95 (released, unsurprisingly, in 1995) was a total rewrite of the previous 3.X version of Windows. The next version, Windows 98, was a less-significant upgrade, and Windows 98 Second Edition (in 1999) was really no more than a minor bug fix.

So where does the upcoming new Windows 7 fit into this timeline? While Windows Vista, the previous version, was a fairly radical overhaul of the operating system, Win7 is more like Windows 98—an incremental upgrade at best.

That's in keeping with Windows' history, of course, with minor upgrades typically following major ones. Vista was major, Windows 7 is minor, and that's the way it goes.

With that overview in mind, let's take a more detailed look at each successive version of Windows—starting with its most immediate ancestor, the operating system known simply as DOS.

DOS

Windows evolved from Microsoft's original DOS operating system, which was released in 1981. This new operating system was developed by Bill Gates and Paul Allen to run the then-new IBM Personal Computer, and utilized a stark text-based interface and simple one-word user commands.

The way the story goes, IBM contracted with the then-startup Microsoft company to supply the operating system for the initial IBM PC. Gates and Allen purchased the existing QDOS (quick and dirty operating system) from Seattle Computer Products and adapted it as necessary for the new computer system.

The resulting operating system was dubbed DOS, short for disk operating system. DOS was the generic name for what were actually two different operating systems. When packaged with IBM's personal computers, DOS was dubbed PC DOS. When sold in a standalone package by Microsoft, DOS was dubbed MS-DOS. Both versions were functionally identical.

Most first-generation PC users learned to operate their computers using DOS. The operating system was not what one would call user-friendly; it required users to memorize a series of obscure text commands and use those commands to perform most day-to-day operations, such as copying files, changing directories, and so forth. The chief advantage of DOS was its speed and small operating footprint, both important issues when most computers only had 640K memory.

Lenovo IdeaPad U450p notebook coming soonToday's Review: Latest ...

Computer manufacturer Lenovo has posted a teaser page for an upcoming IdeaPad U450p notebook, revealing nearly no information at all as a full-blown product page does not yet exist. At 14 inches, it's the larger sibling to the recently launched 13.3-inch IdeaPad U350 and will add an optical drive. Like the U350, it will be powered by a range of Intel's Consumer Ultra Low Voltage (CULV) processors, though which ones exactly isn't known. The U350 uses a 1.2GHz Celeron M in its base configuration, with the options of a 1.3GHz Pentium dual-core or 1.4GHz Core 2 Solo. The U450p should offer similar choices, and it's expected to be a little thicker than the U350's 1-inch profile and heavier than 3.5lbs on account of the optical drive and larger chassis. The U350 also has a standard 4-cell battery, though Lenovo offers an 8-cell that is said to provide 10 hours of battery life.

While the U350 starts at $649, pricing or a release date for the U450p hasn’t been released. Lenovo is expected to provide more information on the system soon.

Charged up over wireless: HoMedics expands to develop PowerMat

For 22 years, Commerce Township-based HoMedics has carved a niche in the sale of personal health products, with items from hand-held massagers to knee braces sold in 50,000 retail outlets.

Now the firm is on a quest for power. Wireless power.
After announcing a joint venture with an Israel-based inventor last year, the firm is expanding its Commerce Township facility for the research and development of a product called the PowerMat.

“We're dealing with huge companies that are looking to integrate our technology into their devices, so we're looking at PowerMat as being whatever Intel is to (the computer processor industry), PowerMat will be to wireless charging,” HoMedics co-founder Ron Ferber said. The product uses a process called inductive coupling, allowing cellular phones, cameras and laptops to be charged without the use of a cord by placing them on the charged mat.


The product took the Best of Competition award, beating thousands of other presenting companies.

“The potential here is to eliminate the need to plug something in within your workspace,” said Mark Falanga, senior vice president of Chicago-based Merchandise Mart Properties Inc., which hosts NeoCon.

“People in the modern workplace have multiple tasks, different groups, teams, throughout the day. Rather than isolate in a cubicle, workspace is freestanding, even with wheels.

“You can add even more flexibility if you're not tethered to an outlet and series of cords.”

The wireless power concept is already on the market.

Newest Version of the World Celebrated Live Acquisition Tool

e-fense announced the release of its highly anticipated version update to the renowned product, Live Response. Live Response is the amazing live forensics acquisition and collection tool that rests on a USB thumb drive. It is the only live forensic USB key with such an extensive feature set in the world today. It is already used by hundreds of clients in law enforcement and business. Live Response allows law enforcement, government and corporate customers to acquire data from a running system quickly. Even personnel untrained in computer forensics can acquire Internet history, RAM, images, and other digital evidence with a few simple clicks. The user simply inserts the pre-configured USB key into the target system, tells the application to start and the data is transferred onto the key within minutes.


Live Response and its sister product Aperio, have been in the market place for over a year. The products have received rave reviews from all who have used or analyzed it including; journalist, computer forensics experts, law enforcement officers, and information security personnel. This latest Live Response and Aperio release includes many new features that now ensure the software is easier than ever to use. It also includes even more robust features for investigators with forensics training. From experts to the computer novice, anyone can insert and gather the live data as required, e-fense has created a solution for all.

CEO, Steve Bederman, spoke about the ease of use, "You definitely do not have to be an expert in using computers to collect data with Live Response. Almost anyone can insert a USB key and click a prompt." Bederman chided, "Once I realized that I even could handle it, I knew we had a winner that could be marketed to a wide range of customer profiles." Live Response can be applied to a wide range of applications. The law enforcement community has used Live Response to collect data quickly without an onsite forensic expert. Officers are armed with Live Response, prepared to conduct investigations immediately whenever necessary. The business community has found Live Response to be a vital tool for incident response. During this economic downturn theft in the business place is becoming more prevalent and companies need to respond immediately. Companies can use Live Response to collect data from the target or suspect computer while using anyone that is onsite to do the capture. They then submit the USB key to the proper personnel for analysis and then report on that incident.

"We have been to several events this year where Live Response was the highlight and the reaction was awe-inspiring. Law Enforcement is learning about the ability to quickly acquire data that may make or break a case. Businesses are now aware that they can use law enforcement ready type tools to secure their business. Once we put it into almost anyone's hands they immediately want it," said Lauren LaFortuna, Managing Director at e-fense.

DDR3 Review Series

Over the course of the next few weeks, Benchmark Reviews will be releasing nearly a dozen reviews covering nearly every speed of DDR3 make by almost every memory manufacturer on the market. This article introduces the technology, and offers a glimpse at what we've secured for testing. And while we know that DDR3 is not for everyone, this series will certainly disprove the early failures and possibly convince you why DDR3 should already be a part of your computer system

Benchmark Reviews has been keeping very close tabs on the system memory industry lately, and it should not surprise you to learn that we have uncovered some fierce competition between manufacturers. Ever since Intel released their 3 series northbridge, which presently includes the favored P35 and X38 chipsets, most people believed that DDR2 would have the wind taken from its sails so that DDR3 could make waves. With the chipset supporting two different memory standards, the decision was ultimately left up to the consumer.

This was meant with the best intentions, but as DDR3 was released to the public it didn't take long for people to realize it was still too immature to compete against the more refined DDR2 in regards to high-end performance. DDR3 initially fell short of enthusiast expectations, and motherboard manufacturers collectively surrendered and kept DDR2 as the standard in nearly all of their products. For a short period of time after the P35 norhtbridge launched this put the weight of the world back on the shoulders of DDR2.