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At the February 2004 meeting, Jeff Setaro talked first on what types of computers are best suited for different users. He was followed by Bruce Preston on how to keep your computer in tip top shape. Probably due to the weather, the crowd was sparse. This created, however, a good environment for informal exchanges of ideas between both speakers and some attendees who shared their thoughts on the topics presented. Other participants asked and received immediate feedback on specific concerns related to the topics presented. Jeff SetaroJeff Setaro described which computers different types of users would need, depending upon whether they considered themselves a home user, a sole proprietor working from home, or a power professional user. The advice Jeff gave was to not necessarily acquire the fastest or latest processor, but rather to go for the most RAM, a significantly large hard disk and a display that is the best as one can afford. Displays, according to Jeff, are now mostly of flat types, rather than the more traditional CRT. Jeff gave the audience the minimum RAM users should look for, based on their personal, professional or business needs, as well as the differences between diverse processors and operating systems. In case of doubt regarding buzzwords, which may not be clear, Jeff suggested consulting http://www.techweb.com/encyclopedia/, which has 20,000 IT terms. Jeff also elaborated on notebooks, though he admitted not having much luck with them, as laptop computers seem to die rather early when in his hands. He nevertheless recommended the Pentium M processor, which, quoting from the web tech encyclopedia mentioned above is “ a CPU from Intel for mobile computing that was introduced in 2003 with speeds up to 1.6 GHz, the Pentium M supports multiple voltages so that power can be optimized based on user demand.” As in desktop computers, memory matters, so get as much as possible. It is advisable to acquire an independent graphic card instead of one combined with the processor. Since mobile computers can be more delicate than desktops, the more warranty offered, the better, and, if possible, extended manufacturer warranty. In order to connect to the Internet, a laptop should be equipped with Wi-Fi, either 802.11b or Bluetooth, for wireless connectivity. Battery life should cover a normal workday before being recharged. Jeff also briefly mentioned handheld devices, which can also be used as an MP3 device. Jeff concluded by saying that the disadvantage of a mobile device is that it is more expensive, breaks more often and does not have as much capability as a desktop. Bruce PrestonBruce Preston then continued with his portion of the presentation, on the topic of how to keep that new PC healthy. His first advice was to get to know what is on the system tray. Those are the programs that boot when your computer is turned on. With the mouse, go over each icon to find out which is which. If the name is not recognized check for its definition on a web search engine. You can locate the vendor of the application by right clicking with the mouse. If many applications start upon turning on your computer it means that you are using up lots of precious RAM that is not available otherwise. Bruce explained how to turn off unneeded applications to speed up your computer. Once in a while I find new applications on the system tray that were installed when the kids use the computer. Housekeeping is not only limited to the dust and dishes, it is now extended to the computer. The next topic that Bruce tackled, to keep that computer in good shape, was how to keep intruders out of your system. He described different firewalls that are available in software and hardware forms. He emphasized that a hardware firewall is always preferable, but that a combination of the two is the best bet. A hardware firewall can also be used as a router for wireless connection to the Internet if several computers are used in the same house or office. By all means, in times with virus scares on the news frequently, keep your antivirus program updated, Bruce warned. Most antivirus software update on a frequent basis with a scheduler. Some antivirus programs now have both firewall and antivirus combined in one. Jeff Setaro mentioned that F-Secure Internet Security 2004 at http://www.f-secure.com offers both features. On the subject of keeping your computer away from intruders, Bruce suggested several freeware programs that clean computers such as AdAware 6, which removes any spyware or adware and annoying popups that may have been installed on your computer without your knowledge. SpyBot Search & Destroy at http://www.safer-networking.org/ is also a spyware fighter. The web site GRC, http://www.grc.com, can be checked for programs to be downloaded to identify open ports on your computer that would provide entry to potential intruders. For additional information, Bruce recommended http://www.cexx.org which has details on adware and spyware. As Bruce was closing
his presentation, Mike Kaltschnee, from the audience, reminded
us to regularly do a Windows Update, in order to have the latest
revision of the operating system. |
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