General
Information- Education- Internet- Software- Hardware- Home
Home Office
The in-home office has the same basic requirements as the one-person office.
The exception to this is that the in-home office computer user may have
stricter place limitations than the one-person office. The in-home user needs
to be concerned with getting the business application programs that fill
their needs without being too complex to run. For example, in a mufti-user
office there is usually an accountant to run the accounting package and a
programmer to run the database package. However, in an in-home office there
is no one to study the subtleties of the individual software packages, so
software that runs a variety of programs supplemented by any special purpose
business programs is recommended. The type of computer needed can then be
determined by the requirements of the software packages selected. Consult
your local dealer for more information concerning special software titles.
Physically Challenged Computer Users
The physically challenged computer user has a wide variety of software to
choose from. Depending on the user's particular needs, software can be
purchased to complete the desired task. Any special hardware to help the user
control the computer can also be purchased or created. A variety of special
hardware is available, ranging from mouth activated controls to specially
adapted keyboards. Special software is also available for enlarging screen
text for sight impairment, and reading program menus and screen text for the
blind. For more information on products available for the physically
challenged contact your local computer dealer, or call the national support
center for persons with disabilities at 1-800-426-2133.
Student Computer Users
The student computer user has some special buying concerns. The student
should try to buy the same package that they are learning at school, or a
compatible product, if possible. This helps the student learn programming
without having to translate the classroom examples from one version to another
for use at home. There are usually low cost software products that have some
of the features used in the more expensive packages taught in school. Consult
your school for a list of the packages used in certain computer based
courses.
Household System
There are two important questions a home computer buyer should ask. Do I want
a computer for entertainment and game playing, or will I use it to bring work
home, do personal finances, or help the children with homework? If the system
is just to be used for games then the buyer should look into buying a game
system. These cost less than a personal computer and are much better at
playing arcade style games than personal computers. If a home computer is
needed for other purposes, then the buyer should look for software packages
that can do several functions, or software that does exactly what they need
the computer for. If the user will be bringing work home, then the software
packages used at home must be compatible with what is used at work. Once
software packages have been chosen, the type of computer needed can be
determined. For more information on household computer systems, please
contact your local computer dealer.
What about Computer Service?
The place to get service for a computer depends on where and when it was
purchased. Computer dealers will usually repair what they sell for free
within the first few weeks or months after the sale, depending on the
dealer's warranty policy. For service after that, most dealers will sell
warranty extensions, which may or may not include on site service. Some
computer dealers will repair computers that were purchased elsewhere for a
fee. If there is no local computer dealer to go to, there are service centers
for different makes of computers that take computers from across the country.
The drawback with the service center approach is that you may have to pay the
shipping costs and it usually takes longer to get your system back. If all
other options have been tried, some computer manufacturers will repair their
models for a fee. Sending a computer back to the manufacturer has the same
drawback as the service center approach.
Which Computer Is Best for You?
The first time computer buyer should first figure out why they want a
computer. Is it for balancing the family budget? For storing recipes? To help
with school work or to bring work home from the office? The new buyer should
then find out which software packages are available in their price range that
do the task desired. The next step is to find out what computer hardware is
needed to run the chosen software packages. Is a color monitor needed, or
will a black and white monitor work? How much memory is necessary to run the
software you need? Is a mouse recommended for use with the software you've
chosen? This information, and more, can be found in computer magazines and
from your local computer dealers.
Computers in the Future
In the future the majority of people will be computer literate as computers
become easier to use and become part of many more common devices. We are
already seeing the microchips that make up a computer being manufactured in
everything from wrist watches to cars. The computer will become so
commonplace it will become part of certain major home appliances. Most of the
everyday devices that a person uses in the future will be controlled or
supplemented by a computer. Computers will continue to decrease in size while
gaining in power. Secondary storage media, like floppy disks, will remain
approximately the same size, but a tremendous leap in capacity is expected.
General
Information- Education- Internet- Software- Hardware- Home
Self-study of Computers
Due to the popularity of personal computers there are many different
resources such as books, magazines, audio cassettes, video tapes and
self-study programs to help a user learn more about their computer system.
These covered topics range from software of all descriptions to hardware and
how to fix it. Almost all of the self-study material is available through
major book chains or computer stores. Different types of computer users use
different resources. New users can get a wide variety of introductory
materials to get started but almost every advanced user, whether they are a
programmer or a spreadsheet expert, have at least two or three books of
reference for seldom used options and newer versions of programs.
Vocational Schools
There are many vocational schools available to get people the training they
need to become a professional in the computer industry. Most such schools are
geared toward training programmers or repair technicians. Though many are
expanding their curriculum to include systems analyst and design. Most
vocational schools provide all their training at, or just under a year's
time. To supplement their training, most schools also have job placement
assistance. Pricing varies but the vast majority of schools provide
financing. This is a good option for people who know what field they are
interested in, but do not want to spend the time, or take the extra courses
that a college or university requires.
Private Teachers
Private personal computer teachers can be found in many larger cities. This
type of training is generally more focused than what is found in vocational
or public schools. This type of training is recommended for those who know
specifically what subjects or even what areas of certain subjects they want
to learn. The private teacher can create a one-on-one course that very
closely follows what the student is interested in. This also has the
advantage of being a faster way to learn about a given subject, more than the
traditional classroom. Private teachers also impose no prerequisites or
required classes, as most schools do. The disadvantage of this type of
training is the increased cost of a teacher's undivided attention. If the
cost is not out of reach, the increased control over what is taught is enough
for many to choose this type of training for the software package they use
the most. Local users groups are a good place to start when looking for a
private teacher.
User Groups
One of the best sources for information about what is available for your
computer, or for help when using your computer, are local user groups. Local
user groups allow users to share software tips and swap notes on how well a
particular package handles a particular problem. Users often compare local
dealer experiences to help one another find the best sources for hardware,
software, or training in the area. The advantage is that these are real users
with real problems, not just a sample problem made for a demonstration of product.
Depending on how many volunteers there are, and how well organized, local
user groups often keep a library of free or reduced cost software for all of
the members to copy for their personal computers. Many user groups have
structured periods to demonstrate a program that a member may not be familiar
with. Almost all user groups have, at some point, a free form question and
answer period. User groups occasionally print and distribute a newsletter
outlining the last meeting, next meeting, and containing some useful software
tips. The cost of membership is usually nominal. Membership is highly
recommended for new computer users as they can learn from the more
experienced user and avoid costly mistakes and a lot of frustration.
General
Information- Education- Internet- Software- Hardware- Home
What Is the Internet?
The Internet is a super highway that can connect you and your computer to
other people and their computers located throughout the world. When using the
Internet, a person can chat with other people, shop for products or services,
send letters electronically with E-mail, and obtain information on almost any
topic. To get connected to the Internet, you use your telephone line to
connect your computer to a company called an Internet service provider. This
company will assist you with connecting your computer to the Internet.
Profiting from the Internet
Any product or service can be sold on the Internet by creating a Web site.
When selling your services or products on the Internet your virtual store is
open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year. No office expenses
or utility bills, no permits or government red tape. It isn't even necessary
to answer the phone if your Web site is constructed properly. All information
about your business is readily available for your customers at your Web site.
Customers can make purchases from your Web site with a charge card or
purchase order number without human intervention.
Web Site Development
A Web site is a form of advertising for a business to sell its products
throughout the world on the Internet. By creating an electronic brochure of
your company and placing it on the Internet, you can advertise your company
24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year without human
intervention. Your Web site is located on the computer that is owned by your
Internet service provider. Any brochure or advertising literature can be
placed on your Web site. With some minor adjustments, orders can be taken at
your Web site without human intervention.
Internet Service Provider
An Internet Service Provider company connects your computer to the Internet
using a phone modem and your telephone line. This company will charge an
annual fee of approximately $200 to allow you to connect to the Internet.
Included in this charge is free computer software that is needed for connecting
to the Internet. Also included is your E-mail address for receiving messages.
What Is E-mail?
Your E-mail address is how you can receive letters electronically on the
intent from all over the world, similar to the address of your residence.
Think of it as a private mail box that only you have a key to open and
retrieve your electronic mail. This service is provided by your Internet
service provider.
Can I Use the Internet If I Don't Own a Computer?
You can use the Internet for advertising your company, without having access
to a computer. We can create for your company an advertisement on the
Internet that would be viewed all over the world. Any response to the
advertisement would be sent to you directly. Once initial contact was made
you could communicate with your customer using traditional methods such as
telephone or mail.
Online Information Service
Online information services are services that provide software and electronic
mail, or some combination of those services, to computer users. These
services are accessed by users over the phone lines with a modem and
generally have a cost per minute associated with their use. Additional costs
can also be incurred if some special information service is accessed, such as
a database or certain profession. There is also the cost of the phone call
itself that the user must pay. However, even with all of the costs of getting
in and using an online service, their use is typically seen as
self-financing. This is because online services can quickly provide a user
with information that may take weeks to gather manually or not be totally
available in the user's area. This information comes in the form of databases
of knowledge for various professions and direct communication with experts in
any field through electronic mail. Miscellaneous services such as PC to Fax
communication, online games, electronic shopping and countless others, make
online services useful for almost every computer user.
Bulletin Boards
A computer bulletin board service, or BBS, is a personal computer equipped
with a modem and software to allow other users to call in with their modem
and retrieve files or read electronic mail. Note that these two services are
also offered by the online services. The difference in being that the online
service computers are usually mainframes with far more capacity than a
personal computer, but bulletin boards usually don't charge for access and
those that do, charge nominal flat rate fees, and the online services also
offer a much wider range of services. Bulletin boards are filled with
information of a much more local nature than online services. Civic centers,
user group meetings, and local electronic mail are the things normally posted
on a computer bulletin board. Bulletin boards are much cheaper in connection
charges than online services since it's generally a local call. This is why a
lot of users get free and reduced price software from bulletin boards when
the same software is found on the technically superior online service. The
drawback here is that because the bulletin board can simply be someone's
personal computer, running an inexpensive communication package, security can
be a concern. Confidentiality of electronic mail cannot be guaranteed by these
systems, and viruses are occasionally found in the software available to
users. With common sense, and some protective software, bulletin boards can
be a great way to get introduced to the world of telecommunication by the
computer.
What Can the Internet Do For You
Arendt Enterprises would like to give you some basic information on what the
Internet can do for you. Becoming involved in, and exploring the Internet can
benefit you both personally and professionally. Plus, it can be a lot of fun.
The Internet allows you to investigate almost any topic imaginable, and
offers the opportunity to receive up-to-date reports on things such as
reports, the weather and the stoke market. You can expand your computer
software library by downloading free software or demonstrate new software,
called shareware, before you purchase your individual copy. The Internet can
help you stay in touch with loved ones by using E-mail, or meet someone new
through online chat rooms. For even more fun, you can play interactive games
such as chess and checkers with other Internet participants. You are able to
take with or play games with Internet subscribers all over the world. The
Internet has important business applications because it is one of the latest
advertising techniques used to promote products or services. Many businesses
are building web sites because it offers a creative way to attract new
customers through both audio and visual presentation.
General
Information- Education- Internet- Software- Hardware- Home
What is RAM?
RAM (ram) stands for random access memory. RAM is the computer's workplace
for holding programs and the results of programs. Almost all of the
instructions to make the computer do any of the things it can do, must be
loaded into RAM for the computer to work. RAM starts out with very few
instructions in it when the computer is first turned on, but fills up with
the programs that you load into it, to do the work and the results of any
previous work. In general, the more RAM a computer has, the more data it can
work with at one time. Adding more RAM generally allows the computer to work
more complex problems because the software necessary to complete complicated
tasks take up more RAM space than more simple programs. RAM is measured in
bytes. One byte could represent the letter "a" , the number
"1", or an instruction for the computer. Approximately 1,000 bytes
(bites) is called a kilobyte (kill-o-bite). Approximately 1,000 kilobytes is
called a megabyte (meg-a-bite). Most computers today have between 256 and 640
kilobytes of RAM. Most computers can be expanded to several megabytes of RAM.
A system needs to have as much RAM as the programs being run on it require.
What is ROM?
ROM (rom) stands for read only memory. ROM holds some of the instructions
that the computer uses for starting itself and operating some of its
hardware, like the serial and parallel port. The ROM of a computer is used by
the operating system to talk to other types of devices, like the disk drive
and monitor.
What is DOS?
DOS (dos) stands for disk operating system. It is a setup program for
controlling the hardware that makes up a computer. The programmer will write
a program that will communicate with DOS to store or display certain pieces
of text and DOS then communicates directly with the hardware that makes up
the computer. With DOS we have thousands of programs available that can share
data with certain limitations with each other. Without operation systems like
DOS, there would be far fewer programs available and the programs would have
difficulty sharing data with each other. DOS is the supervisor of all the
programs a user runs on their computer. And it also determines which programs
a user can run as some programs use services found only in particular
versions of DOS or other operating systems.
What is Serial?
Serial is used to describe one way the computer can send its results or to
receive results from another device, like a printer. The computer stores
information as bytes. One byte can represent the letter "a", the
number "1", or an instruction for the computer. A byte is on most
computers made up of eight bits. Serial communication is done one bit at a
time. On other words, a computer sending the letter "a" to a
printer serial would actually send the printer eight separate bytes, one at a
time. Some common devices that talk to the computer serially are modems,
mice, and some printers. Compare this type of communication with parallel.
What is Parallel?
Parallel is used to describe one way the commuter can send its results to or
receive it results from another device. Like a printer, the computer stores
information as bytes. One byte can represent the letter "a", the
number "1", or an instruction for the computer. Parallel
communication is done one byte at a time. In other words, a computer sending
the letter "a" to a printer using a parallel communication would
actually send it in one step. The most common devices that talk to the
computer using parallel communication are printers. Compare this type of
communication with serial.
Word Processing
A word processing program is one that allows a user to enter and manipulate
words. There are a wide variety of word processing programs with a wide
variety of capabilities. Some word processing programs allow the computer to
do little more than act as a memory enhanced typewriter. Other word
processing programs offer additional features. These might include search and
replace where a user can automatically change every occurrence of the word
"dog" to the word "cat". Still other word processing
programs have more advanced features, which allow the computer to mix text
and graphics on the same page, automatically generate a table of contents or
index, and format the page in newspaper-like columns. In purchasing such a
package it is essential to figure out which features a user needs now, and
which features may be useful in the near future. Buying a package with too
few features means having to re-learn an entirely new program sooner than is
necessary. Likewise, buying a package with too many features complicates the
task and makes the simple jobs harder than they should be. To get more
information on what program you need, consult your local dealer and ask any
friend currently using a word processing package.
Spreadsheets
A spreadsheet program is one that allows a user to enter and manipulate
numbers. This type of package is more similar from package to package than
word processors or databases. One of the basic features of any spreadsheet is
the ability to create formulas. Some spreadsheets have additional features
such as graphics, and many more have add-ins that do very sophisticated
statistical analysis. This type of program can be found in all combinations
of capacity and power. Similar spreadsheets can have a 256 by 256 grid of
cells in which to enter numbers and simple formulas like averages and sums.
The more powerful packages can have over a billion cells with such advanced
formula functions as standard deviation. The main factor to consider when
buying a spreadsheet is price. If a spreadsheet has the formula functions
needed and any other features wanted like graphics then the only concern is
price and remember that most spreadsheets share the same basic set of formula
functions.
Desktop Publishing
Desktop publishing packages are programs that are designed to help layout and
format a page of text, usually for publication. These programs are usually
not endowed with the features useful for entering and manipulating individual
pieces of text, like those found in word processing packages because that is
not their main function. The desktop publishing program is equipped to handle
such things as mixing text and graphics from various programs onto the same
page, controlling the appearance of the text, such as fonts, and generally do
all of the formatting necessary to take a word processing file and make it look
like it was a type set for inclusion in a publication. The distinction
between desktop publishing and word processing programs is blurry. The more
powerful word processing packages are acquiring rudimentary page layout
skills. At the same time, the more powerful desktop programs are becoming
more capable in manipulating individual pieces of text. As these packages
have become more powerful, a new group of desktop publishing programs has
emerged. These new programs are far less complicated and more suitable for
home and small business use than their counterparts. Consult you local dealer
to find out which package has the features you need.
Accounting
There are several accounting packages available for personal computers. These
range in price is from about $100 to several hundred dollars. The features
they have may be appropriate for either home use or businesses use. Some are
even adapted for use by non-profit organizations or other groups with special
accounting needs. The home use accounting programs are good for balancing the
family budget. Some of these have additional features like check writing and
electronic banking making personal finances almost painless. The business
programs have the more advanced accounting features that are related to
having multiple books open at once and computing payroll and linking
accounting information such as cells to inventory. The menu or command
structure varies greatly between packages so there are multiple options even
when the needed level of power and features have been decided. Consult your
local dealer to find out which packages are best suited for your accounting
needs.
Database Management
Database management packages are programs that are designed to store and
manipulate tables or lists of information. These packages not only vary in
the way they store and retrieve information, but also in the way a user can
access it. For example, a simple database program may allow a user to create
several tables of information such as a client list and a salesperson list.
Such a program is called a "flatfile" database program. A more
powerful database program may also allow the tables to be linked so that the
user can track which salesperson is in charge of certain clients. This type
of program is loosely termed a "relational" database. A still more
powerful database can have its known programming language and allow a custom
set of menus to be built for others to more easily get at the information in
the client and salesperson tables. There are currently several competing
packages at each of these levels of sophistication. Prices run an equally
wide spectrum. Flatfile databases can cost as little as about $100. A
relational package with its own programming language can cost several hundred
to several thousand dollars. Consult your local dealer for more information
on which type of package is best suited for your needs.
Computer Education for All Ages
There are several packages available for educating people in a wide variety
of subjects. These programs come in several varieties, including games that
teach, guided tutorials and interactive tutorials. The games that teach can
be anything from a space invaders-like game to one that teaches spelling, to
simulation programs. The simulation programs allow one to explore various
situations with surprising technical accuracy, otherwise unavailable or
hazardous to the user. These include piloting a plane, submarine, space
shuttle, or tank. Other simulations may include scenarios for diving or
exploring a foreign land. The guided tutorial programs usually take a single
path approach to learning. They guide the user through a subject in a set
series of steps. There are usually provisions made for different levels of
detail or different levels of understanding. The next step up in
sophistication is the interactive tutorial which not only allows for
different levels of detail, but imposes no set series of questions to ask, or
problems to pose. This form of tutorial is considered the best though there
are many award winning guided tutorials for subjects where the interactive
approach is confusing. Basically, the computer gives the choice today of not
only what to learn but how to learn it. Consult your local dealer for
specific titles in different subjects.
Computer Games
Games are the single largest software category for the personal computer
today. Games are usually separated by type into one of four categories. They
are simulations, arcade games, adventure games, and numerous hybrids. The
simulation programs allow one to explore various situations with surprising
technical accuracy, otherwise unavailable or hazardous to the user. These
include piloting a plane, submarines, space shuttle, or tank. Other
simulations may include scenarios for diving or exploring a foreign land. The
arcade games are either a personal computer version of a popular video game
or can be any of the hundreds of the so-called "shoot-em-up" games.
The adventure games are usually based on either a medieval saga or a roving
starfighter plot. There are other games that quite simply, but capably,
replicate a physical game classic. These include the programs that play
chess, checkers, Chinese checkers, and countless card games. The advantage to
having then on the computer, not only lies in the speed and ease of setting
up or resetting up a game, but in that the computer can act as a second
player, if needed. The important thing to note about game programs is that
because of their graphics oriented nature, the type of hardware a user owns
determines which games can be used, and what level of detail is to be
expected. Consult your local dealer to find out which titles are available
for your type of hardware.
Integrated Packages
An integrated package is a program that attempts to offer some of the features
found in each of the basic computing areas; word processing, spreadsheets,
database management, graphics, and usually also, communication. The advantage
to buying this type of package lies in the consistency between the different
types of programs. Whereas, buying a spreadsheet from one vendor and a
database program from another, will usually mean having to learn two separate
sets of commands. An integrated package uses the same commands where
appropriate across its different modules. There is another advantage in
price. The integrated package usually costs much less than buying the
equivalent in individual programs. The only major disadvantage to buying this
type of program is that it normally compromises features in order to be small
enough and fast enough to run on the more common, but lesser equipped
personal computers. The new user of personal computers is strongly advised to
try using an integrated package before using separate ones. This will get a
person producing actual results faster.
Graphical User Interface (GUI'S)
A graphical user interface is simply a program that allows a different
approach to entering commands to your computer. Whereas, some computers
accept typed commands with lists of options typed accordingly, a computer
running a graphical user interface allows a user to point to command and
their appropriate option. This sometimes requires a pointing device such as a
mouse in order to work. There are graphical interfaces for many computers,
and some computers are made to only work in one. The advantage to using a
graphical interface is that it brings more consistency to the various
programs being run on a specific computer. A graphical interface does this by
setting rules for program writers to follow so that the similar commands in their
programs appear in similar places in the interface, and function the same. As
you can see, one needs to purchase programs written to take advantage of
these rules in order to get the most out of the graphical interface.
Graphical interfaces also have the advantage of being easier to learn than
their typed counterpart, depending on the particular interface. The major
generic disadvantage to graphical interfaces is they usually require more
computing horsepower than most users own. This means that most users will
also have to buy more hardware to get a graphical interface to work on their
system. Consult your local dealer to find out which graphical interfaces are
available for your computer.
Telecommuting
Telecommuting is the process by which someone can work away from the office,
usually at home, and send in completed work over the phone line through a
modem as it is finished. While still very new, many employers are finding
that telecommunicating can raise productivity significantly. This is because
telecommuting allows the employee to avoid wasting time physically commuting
to the office, and giving the worker a chance to work in a more comfortable
environment. The worker also has the fringe benefit of flexible self-set
hours, though the employee must be a self-starter. Many writers and
programmers in this country are currently telecommuting to work regularly.
Some are even telecommuting into this country from across the world.
Telecommuting can be adapted for a variety of positions in a variety of professions.
The only requirement is the work should be able to be completed by one
individual who needs no direct supervision. There are a few areas to watch
out for when setting up a new telecommuting group, such things as regular
office visits or meetings to keep a sense of organization, and regular status
calls in the beginning to get the workers familiar with the setup. For some
organizations telecommuting, has forever increased profits and morale without
giving up control and consistency.
Do You Need More Computer Memory or RAM?
Arendt Enterprises would like to help you decide whether your need to add
more memory to your computer. Exactly how much memory, or RAM is a difficult
question to answer unless you know exactly what you are going to use your
computer for, and what kind of performance you expect from it. Most of
today's games and productivity software requires at the minimum, twelve
megabytes of RAM. Since standard computers come with sixteen megabytes of
RAM, it's usually not necessary to purchase additional RAM unless you want to
increase computer performance. In contrast, some CAD software applications
require thirty-two megs or higher of RAM. Arendt Enterprises suggests you pay
attention to the system requirements of the software when you purchase it to
help determine how much RAM you will need. The other important reason your
may want to purchase additional RAM is that it will allow you to increase
system performance. Contact Arendt Enterprises for information on your system
performance expectations. Arendt Enterprises knowledgeable staff can answer
your questions about RAM and give you a price for additional memory.
What is Multi Media?
Arendt Enterprises would like to explain exactly what multi media is, and how
it impacts your computing capabilities. Basic multi media is defined as a CD-
ROM player, sound card and speakers. These three devices work together to
form an interactive means to combine high-end graphics, motion video and
real-time audio playback. The CD-ROM plays an important role because it can
hold the larger amount of data that is required for high- definition video
and graphics in many games and powerful programs. A CD-ROM player may also be
necessary because more and more popular software programs are being
distributed in this durable format. The sound card and speakers contribute to
the multi media package because they allow you to hear sound from your
software program. Sound effects enhance the interactive aspect of computer
use. Arendt Enterprises knowledgeable staff can give you information on new
multi media computing systems or offer advice on upgrading your current
system.
When is More Video RAM Necessary?
Arendt Enterprises would like to help you decide when more video RAM is
needed for your computer system. Many computer buyers are requesting higher
performance video cards, which have more RAM, with their computer systems
because they believe their machine will run faster. If you purchase, or
already own a computer with a smaller-sized monitor, for instance - a 14-inch
or less, on a meg of RAM, which is standard, will be adequate. If your
purchase, or already own a larger-sized monitor, for instance, a 15-inch or
larger, you may be running your monitor at a higher resolution so your
computer will require more video memory. Another instance for which
additional high-performance video RAM may be needed is when running
3-dimensional games and CAD programs. Additional vide RAM will increase
overall system performance when using these software programs. Arendt
Enterprises knowledgeable staff can provide you with more information on
video RAM or offer advice on whether your need to upgrade your system.
What is the MMX Processor?
Arendt Enterprises would like to provide you with information on Intel's MMX
processor. The latest microprocessor by Intel is the MMX CPU. It claims to
increase system performance in two ways. First, they have added more internal
cache memory, which increases processing speed. The second way Intel has
increase system performance is the addition of 57 new opcodes to the CPU.
When these additional opcodes are used by MMX-capable software, up to a
twenty percent increase in system performance is possible. At this time, very
few software programs are available with the MMX technology. It is predicted
that a greater number of MMX programs will be available in the future.
General
Information- Education- Internet- Software- Hardware- Home
What Is a Disk?
A disk is a type of storage device used by computers to hold information
until needed for use by the computer. This information can be either programs
or data. Disks come in two varieties, the floppy disk and the hard disk. The
floppy disk is used to store relatively small amounts of data and are
commonly used to move files between computers. The hard disk is used to store
much more data, but is usually physically installed inside a computer and can
not as easily be moved.
Monochrome Monitors
A monochrome monitor is a monitor that uses only one color to display
information. Most monitors of this type use either green, amber, or white to
display information on a black background. There are some monitors of this
type called page white displays that use black to display information on a
white background. The page white display is preferred by some because it more
closely mimics the printed page. A newer form of a monochrome monitor called
a gray scale monitor uses either amber or white to display information on a
black background. The difference is that a gray scale monitor can produce
shades of a given color to more closely simulate color displays. Monochrome
monitors are sometimes preferred for work with word processing or other text
based programs.
Color Monitors
There are different types of color monitors designed to work with different
computers. Some types of computers have several different types of color
monitors to choose from. When choosing a monitor, one factor is the
resolution that a screen can provide. This resolution is determined by the
number of dots or pixels (pick-sels) a monitor has. Different monitors also
have different numbers of possible colors. A specific combination of how many
dots and colors are available for the computer to work with is called a
graphics standard. The graphics standard a computer uses is determined by the
controller for the monitor called a video card. The different color monitors
are built to work with a certain graphics standard and a certain video card.
The number of pixels and number of possible colors usually increase together.
Where the early monitors had only four colors and about 300,000 pixels, the
newer systems have over two and a half times as many pixels with 64 times as
many colors. The type of monitor needed will be determined by your computer
hardware and what type of work you are doing.
Plotters
A plotter is a device that uses one or more pins moved over a page to produce
graphics from a personal computer. They are not well suited to producing a
page of text because the pins are very narrow pointed and are more expensive
to replace than dot matrix printer ribbons. The plotter is, however, the best
at producing wire framed graphics, as it can produce tree diagonals and
curves because the plotter's pins move in two axis of motion rather than one
like the grid of the dot matrix printer. This is done by moving the paper
back and forth under a stationary bar, along which the pins move, or by a bar
which moves up and down the page while the pin moves across the bar. Some
plotters can also work with very large page sizes and work with many colors.
Plotters are normally used only in offices where technical documents such as
blueprints and schematics need to be produced because of the plotter's high
price and suitability only for graphics.
Portable Printers
A portable printer is a dot matrix, or thermal transfer printer, that is
small enough to be easily carried while traveling. These printers are
essentially the same as larger dot matrix printers. Some exceptions include
slower printing speeds, and a slight loss of quality in print. Most users of
portable printers use them with a laptop computer while traveling or share
them among multiple computers in an office for printing preliminary drafts
where the print quality is not a major factor.
Modems
A modem is a device that converts the digital signals generated by the
computer's serial port to the modulated, analog signals required for
transmission over a telephone line, and transforms incoming analog signals to
their digital equivalents. In personal computing, people frequently use
modems to exchange programs and data with other computers, and to access online
information services.
Local Area Networks (LAN'S)
A local area network, or LAN, is a combination of hardware and software that
allows multiple computers to share resources. Such resources might be laser
printers or large disk drives that are sometimes too expensive to equip every
computer in an organization with. A LAN also allows multiple users on
multiple computers to work together more effectively by sharing messages and
documents over the LAN. There are a number of decisions that need to be made
in order to choose the right combination of hardware and software to make a
LAN. Consult your local computer or network dealer for more information.
What Is a Mouse?
A mouse is a rolling ball housed in a hand held box that is used to control
the computer. It allows the user to move more quickly through menus and large
bodies of text than the arrow keys found on most keyboards. Using a mouse to
select choices from program menus is often easier for new computer users than
memorizing the key combinations to activate a specific option. The mouse can
also be used to modify graphics more easily than with the keyboard. However,
the mouse can only be used with the programs that are written to take
advantage of it.
HOME
|