Computer Viruses and Worms

Humans regard computer viruses and worms as a potential reason for the downfall in technology. If you are wondering which types of viruses and worms affect PCs and laptops, you have come to the right article.

I think computer viruses should count as life. I think it says something about human nature that the only form of life we have created so far is purely destructive. We've created life in our own image. ~ Stephen Hawking.

I think this quote justifies the drastic effects of different viruses on PCs and laptops. This may sound strange, but I think that these viruses and worms have positive and negative effects on technology and human life. On one side, it has devastating effects, disrupts productivity, and causes loss of billions of dollars. On the other hand, viruses show how smart and interconnected human beings have become.

Computer viruses are almost similar to biological viruses and worms, they multiply and for survival they need a host. The common factor, in both scenarios is a weak link; in humans, a weak immune system and in computers, a vulnerable system. Let's have a simple answer to the question what is a computer virus? According to Websters dictionary, a computer virus is defined as a program which is usually hidden with another innocent program which duplicates itself, inserts itself into other programs and files, and later performs hazardous functions to destroy data. Always remember that these viruses are not natural, they are created and spread to healthy computers to infect them.

Famous Computer Viruses

By famous we mean the ones that have affected millions of machines leading to huge social and economical damages. Throughout history you will come across a huge list of computer viruses and worms created by man, but the names mentioned here are the most dangerous ones.

I LOVE YOU
I think everyone who has owned a computer has heard about this dreaded virus. I LOVE YOU is believed to be one of the most dangerous viruses. It was developed by VBScript and was discovered on 4th May 2000 in Philippines. In just 24 hours it had affected PCs in every country, leading to a loss of USD 5.5 billion. Everything starts from an email which arrives in the user's inbox with I LOVE YOU as the subject. After entering the system, the virus attaches a copy of itself on each file of the computer. In addition to this, it sends a copy of itself to all the users who would be on the victim's contact list.

Conficker
Ranking at #5 in the list of most dangerous computer viruses, Conficker was born in November 2009 and it affected more than 5 million PCs in a short span of time. It is credited for creating a secure worldwide infrastructure for cyber crime. This worm duplicates itself and spreads via a buffer overflow, a weakness in the server of machines using Windows OS. After entering the machine, it affects services like Windows Update, Windows Defender, Windows Security Center, and Windows Error Report. Today having the best antivirus you can is a good option, as it is able to destroy this worm which had created hell in countries like India, China, and Brazil.

Sasser
This nasty worm ruined almost everything that came in its path and was the talk of the Internet for many months. This computer virus spread by penetrating into a vulnerable network. It created havoc wherever it went, from the British Coast Guard to Delta Airlines, which had to cancel some of its flights after its systems were infected by Sasser.

Asporex Botnet
Asporex Botnet is the reason for many phishing scams. Discovered in 2008, the Asporex Botnet has been used to launch many high profile attacks on different websites to spread malware. The Botnet makes itself ready in a very unusual way and infects mostly those websites which are running Active Server Pages. The Botnet always attacks in waves and each wave is designed to infect as many websites as possible.

List of Computer Viruses and Worms
These viruses and worms are always part of the news, damaging systems and causing malfunctioning in networks are one of the many problems that a virus or worm causes in a PC or a laptop.

• Code Red
• Nimda
• Blaster
• Creeper
• SQL Slammer
• Elk Cloner
• Jerusalem
• Melissa
• Barrotes
• The Morris Internet Worm

The best way to make your computer safe from different types of viruses is to install the best antivirus program and keep updating it regularly.

Thank Kulbhushaan Raghuvanshi

Article Source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-viruses-and-worms.html

Boot Up Problems

Depending on their cause, computer boot up problems range from mild to severe. Read this article to learn about some common boot up problems in Windows XP and Vista, along with their solutions.

As soon as you switch on the power supply to your computer, the computer's BIOS starts and along with it the CMOS program also begins. The CMOS program starts checking all hardware devices in the computer, like the processor and memory. After doing this, it moves on to checking various other drives like CD ROM, DVD ROM, hard drive, USB drive, and the floppy drive as well. Once all this is checked, it moves on to checking various files, cards, and any other devices installed on the computer. The BIOS then looks out for any floppy present in the floppy drive for it to boot from. In the absence of one, it boots from the hard drive and then loads the windows registry. Any hindrance in the above process can be a cause of the problems faced when booting up.

Booting Up Errors in Windows XP and Vista

Computer Reboots When Shutdown Command is Given

If you give the shut down command and your computer restarts instead, it means that there is something causing a system failure during the shutdown process. To stop this, you will have to click on the 'Start' button and click on 'Run'. In 'Run", type 'sysdm.cpl' and hit 'Enter'. In the window that appears, you will have to click on the Advanced Tab → Settings → Start up and Recovery. Go to the 'Automatically Restart' option and uncheck the box next to it.

You will notice that your windows has stopped rebooting, but the system failure problem still persists. However, the error message window displayed when your computer starts, will give you the cause of the problem. At times, this problem could also be due to a hardware error. It is therefore advisable to call a qualified computer repair personnel to solve this problem.

Computer Freezes at Windows Boot Up Screen

If your computer screen freezes before windows is loaded from the hard drive, there is a hardware problem. To figure this out, try booting your computer from a USB flash drive or a CD/DVD. If your computer boots from any other drive apart from the hard drive, a fault in that particular drive could interfere with the booting, even after you have emptied the drive. You will have to figure out which drive is causing the problem by changing the boot order from your BIOS settings. When your computer starts, you might get a message saying 'Press F2 for Setup' and look for 'Boot Order' or 'Boot Options'. In the boot order, keep your first option as "Hard Drive', and exit. If this stops your problem, you can try putting different devices in the first option and figure out which drive is faulty.

If the problem still continues, there is a serious hardware problem. Unplug all your motherboard connections and carefully connect them back properly once again, and see if it works. Your last option should be to call for an authorized computer repair agent who would help you fix this boot up problem.

Windows Needs a Password to Boot
Windows is programmed to ask for a password before starting, only to protect your computer from eing used by somebody else, without your consent. However, if you have trustworthy people around, and don't mind them using your desktop computer, you can easily remove this option. To turn off the password characteristic, you should first click on the 'Start' button and then on 'Run'. In 'Run' type the command - 'controluserpasswords2', and hit 'Enter'. In the window which appears, you will find an option 'users must enter a username and password to use this computer. Uncheck the box next to this and click 'OK'. Once you do this, a dialog box will appear on screen, wherein you need to type your username and password for the last time. After this, your computer will boot automatically without asking you for any password.

Troubleshooting certain computer startup problems may require help from qualified technicians. This is required when problems are due to certain technical issues which are beyond the comprehension of common people lacking specific knowledge. Regularly updating and maintaining your computer is enough to keep most problems at bay.

 

Thanks to Suketu Mehta

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/boot-up-problems.html

High CPU Usage Problem

The CPU usage rate on your computer determines the speed at which your machine operates. The problem of high CPU usage may be faced from time to time, and this means that some parameter of your machine is causing it to be very slow.

If you are experiencing such difficulties on your computer, then the decreased speed of your machine can lead to a lot of confusion. This is something that happens quite frequently, and there are a variety of reasons that may lead to abnormally high CPU usage rates.

The first thing you need to know is how to check this rate on your machine. You can do so by pressing 'Ctrl + Shift + Esc', or by pressing 'Ctrl + Alt + Delete', and then clicking the 'Task Manager' option. In the subsequent window that opens, you need to click on the 'Processes' tab. This will show you the rate of CPU usage of all the applications that are currently running on the computer. You can also double click on the 'CPU' option, and you will see all the applications in ascending or descending order of the usage rate.

A high usage problem will be evident from this window, and you will need to fix this immediately. If you fail to do so, your machine will continue to run at an excruciatingly slow pace. Also note that this technique is useful only for people using Microsoft Windows.

Causes and Preventive Measures

 

There are a load of viruses and malicious software that can harm and affect your computer by different ways. One of the most common effects of these programs, is to gain control of your CPU usage, and involve it in a completely meaningless task. Note that high usage with no programs running is a clear indicator that your machine has been breached by a harmful program.

In order to solve this difficulty, you must purchase an effective antivirus software, and upgrade it from its official website on a regular basis.

Another cause is a faulty program, or some sort of a damaged file. Though, it is impossible to check the legibility of each and every file on your machine, there is a way you can get to the bottom of this problem. Go to the 'Start' menu, click on 'Run', type 'msconfig' in the opened box, and hit Enter. Now click the 'Startup' tab and check all the items that have been ticked. If you see anything suspicious, uncheck it. Reboot your machine after each item you uncheck, and then note the CPU usage each time. This should help you to pinpoint the program responsible for the high usage. This is one of the many ways to make your computer faster than its normal speed.

When you are checking the CPU usage for your programs, you will see an option known as 'System Idle Process'. The usage rate for this will always be very high, and in such cases there is no need to be alarmed.

Sometimes when you are running some heavy applications on your computer, the usage will shoot up considerably. This is not something that you need to be concerned with. Check the usage when there are no programs running, in order to get a true picture about any malicious software's presence. If your heavy program is not responding at all, then you can choose to end it from the Task Manager window, and this will solve the above difficulty.

Also, make sure that you are running your Windows updates on a regular basis, and also updating your antivirus software at least once a week. They are absolutely essential for your machines well-being, and the regularity with which you take care of them will determine the computer performance levels.

If everything you try fails, just take your machine to a computer repair shop, and tell them the problem that you are facing. A trained and experienced professional will be able to solve such difficulties in a short time.

 

 

Thank to Rahul Thadani 

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/high-cpu-usage-problem.html

Basic Tips for Computer Maintenance

Computer maintenance is usually overlooked by many people and they end up paying for the subsequent repair work. This article includes some useful tips, which you can follow to maintain your computer in the perfect condition.

It is quite surprising to see how many mistakes we make while maintaining our computers, and that too considering the fact that we cannot do much work-wise without them. Computer maintenance is something we can easily take care of ourselves, but we do not take half the care we should and that's the reason why we end up spending hundreds of dollars on calling professionals to check our PCs each year. This is the money we could very well have saved.

This article enlists ten vital maintenance tips that you must follow. This will increase the life of your hard disk and even make the computer prove more efficient to you. (The tips given below are for Windows operating systems.)

Tip # 1 - When to Restart and When to Reset

Most people think that restarting and resetting means one and the same thing, but they don't! Restarting is the process when the machine is made to shut down (normally) and then made to start again after the common rebooting process that it undergoes. Restarting can be done through several internal features of the operating system, including the shut down option in the menu. However, resetting is different. This is done by pressing a button present on the CPU. When you reset a machine, you are shutting it down forcefully and then starting it again. When resetting is done, the machine is not allowed to shut down in the normal way, but restarting allows that to happen.

Resetting must be done only when nothing else seems to work. For example, if the display has frozen, or if the computer 'hangs', and even Ctrl-Alt-Del does not work, then resetting can be done. For simple requirements like reconfiguring the system after installing new software, you must only go for restarting.

Tip # 2 - Shutting Down the Computer

The computer must never be shut down by any other method except through the shut down option provided. Never must it be shut down by powering it off directly from the AC mains. This will cause irreparable damage to the hard disk.

Tip # 3 - Clean Out Your Computer Occasionally

It doesn't take much time to run a disk scan and a defragmenter on your computer. When you defragment your disk, you are freeing up all wasted space on your machine and that certainly increases its efficiency. Scanning shows you all the bad and corrupt files located on your machine.

Tip # 4 - Keep the Startup Simple

If your computer takes a very long time to start up, it probably has a lot of start up programs running. Let the machine start completely, then from the start up programs menu, delete those which you don't need to load at start up. These programs will only slow down your computer drastically.

Tip # 5 - Install an Antivirus

Anyone knowing an iota of computers will tell you how important an antivirus is, if you are using the Internet. Remember to run the antivirus scan regularly. You can even set it up to conduct a scan automatically.

Tip # 6 - Install Firewalls

You can say that firewalls are better than antivirus programs at protection. While antivirus programs are the cure, firewalls can be considered as the prevention. When you set up a firewall, you are restricting all kinds of unauthorized accesses to your computer. You must do this as soon as you get your Internet connection, and then keep the firewall definitions updated.

Tip # 7 - Install Antispyware Programs

Spyware is a term used to describe several unauthorized applications that get installed on your computer when you browse the Internet, and then they make a connection between your machine and the host server. These programs can relay private information from your machine to the host server. Spyware is a chief element of identity theft in today's times. Fortunately, there are several good antispyware programs that you can install to protect your computer from such threats.

Tip # 8 - Keep Adequate Disk Space

Never fill your hard disk to full capacity. This will force your computer to run slow and can even cause damage to the disk. Keep at least 100 MB of free space. However, the hard disks available today have humongous capacities, so this problem will probably never arise.

Tip # 9 - Use Peripheral Devices Carefully

For all peripheral devices, you must exercise care when making direct connections to your PC. Especially when you are removing them, don't just yank them out. Turn off the device through the corresponding software first, and remove them only when they say it's safe to remove the device.

Tip # 10 - Clean Out the Temp Files
Temp files are created when you are working on any application on your computer. These are not user-readable files, but they are records for the computer to use the applications easily, next time. A similar analogy is found in cached files when using the Internet. These files can accumulate to a large extent and can clog the machine, forcing it to run very slow. You must regularly visit the temp or cache folder and clean out these files.

 

 

Thank to Neil Valentine D'Silva 

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-maintenance.html

Reasons Why Computer Freezes When Playing Games

If your computer freezes over, when playing games, it can be an extremely annoying experience. In this article, I shall identify the prime causes of computer freezing problems and provide guidelines on how you can effectively fix them.

I have been there. Right in the heat of the moment, when you are about to blow of a terrorist's head in a closely fought game of Counterstrike, the computer freezes and you lose the shot! While controlling the uncontrollable outburst of expletives, you watch your CT team taking a beating. In such cases, if computer freezes while playing games, you need to immediately identify the source of the problem and take care of it, to prevent further freezing episodes. I am going to help you figure out the problems that could cause your computer to freeze while playing computer games in this Buzzle article.

Why Does Your Computer Freeze During Game Play?

Every single computer problem can be traced to two prime sources, which include hardware and software related issues. Rendering and operating computer games poses the ultimate challenge for your computer hardware and software and if both are found lacking in any aspect, it's bound to reflect in performance. In the following lines, you will find the prime hardware and software related problems that may cause a computer to hang up or freeze in the middle of action.

Mismatching Hardware & Software Requirements

When you investigate why your computer slows down all of a sudden while playing games with heavy GPU usage, you will find the most common reason to be mismatching hardware or software requirements. If the game demands that you need at least 2 GB of RAM for the game to run smoothly and your computer has a paltry 512 MB of RAM, the game is sure as hell going to slow down! If your processor, graphic card and software requirements are not met, the game will continue to freeze or in some cases, it won't run at all. So check out the minimum hardware and software requirements for the game and upgrade your computer to ensure that freezing doesn't occur!

Video Card Driver Problem

One of the most crucial components that play a large role in the graphic rendering of games is the video card. If you don't have the right video card driver or your existing video card driver has bugs, the game may freeze. You will need to upgrade the video card driver to solve the problem.

Overheated Video Card and CPU

Another purely computer hardware related cause that may freeze your PC is overheating. If you have been playing for hours, the mortal failing of your CPU and video card are bound to get exposed, leading to a freeze situation. When this happens, you need to switch off the system and let it cool down for a while, before you start playing again.

Background Processes Eating Up Memory

If you have too many programs running in the background when playing computer games, they are bound to eat up the working memory of the computer and cause it to slow down. Ensure that all background processes, besides the ones that are absolutely necessary are not being run, to make your game play smooth.

Virus Problems

Another cause, which is the root of most software or hardware related computer problems is a computer virus infection. Viruses can keep processes running in the background that may cause a freeze during game play. They may even corrupt the game software installed on the computer. Get one of the best antivirus software and clean out all the virus infections that might be slowing the computer down.

Outdated or Corrupted Rendering Software

A crucial component in the running of games on a computer is the rendering software like DirectX that is installed on the computer. If you have an old or corrupted version, you may experience rendering problems during game play, leading to a freeze. This can be prevented by installation of the latest rendering software.

In most cases, the freezing problem is mostly related to the graphic card driver or mismatching hardware or software requirements. Check for each of the above causes one by one, until you arrive at the right diagnosis. Make sure that all the hardware requirements, as well as software requirements are met to ensure that your computer runs smoothly and doesn't hang up when you are in the middle of action!
 

 

Thank to Omkar Phatak

Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-freezes-when-playing-games.html

How to Diagnose a Broken Computer

If your computer is having issues, don't panic or feel overwhelmed if you don't know what to do! This article will help you get a start on diagnosing the problem, whether it's a small issue or something more serious like a computer that won't turn on at all.

When Computers Break

Computers make our lives better in so many ways, but when they fail they can be indescribably frustrating. Increasingly, many of us have a good portion of our lives on the computer. From our important documents, pictures, and files to our music and movies to the games and other activities that we choose to spend time on, the computer is the location of a huge percentage of contemporary life. When your computer breaks, it can feel a lot like being stuck in a place where you don't want to be. Without the computer, so much of what you do on a day-to-day basis is suddenly unavailable. The good news is, by following a few easy steps you should be able to avoid panicking and head down the road to repairing your machine.

Turn off the Internet

The first step when you are having serious computer trouble is to avoid making the problem worse. This can be difficult if you have no idea what the problem is, but there are a few tricks you can use make sure you don't do further damage. First, if you still have access to the internet, disable it until you are sure the problem isn't caused by a virus. If you do have a virus, it's important that you don't allow it to contact other computers or exchange information over the internet. After you have disabled the internet, you can run full system scans for viruses and malware. If you don't have free antivirus and anti-malware programs already installed, do that as soon as possible, so you are prepared in the event of a computer problem.

Retrace Your Steps

After you have ruled out viruses and malware as the cause of your computer issue, it is usually safe to turn the internet back on. This will allow you to search message boards and tech support forums for advice on how to deal with your specific problem. Before you do that, however, consider what you were doing when the problem began, and what you did in the few minutes, hours, or days prior to the start of the issue. Retracing your steps this way will help you narrow down the problem. You may be able to identify what caused the problem just by thinking about what happened before.

Reverse Any Recent Changes

As you retrace your steps, ask yourself these questions: Did I install anything recently? Did I change any system or program settings recently? Did I update any software or drivers recently? Did I install any new hardware or external devices (like a new mouse or keyboard) recently? If you answer "Yes" to any of these questions, there is a good chance that your recent changes are the cause of the problem. There are several reasons that changes like this can cause issues, including compatibility conflicts or registry errors. Try reversing your changes if possible. Uninstall any recently installed programs, reset settings to defaults, or go back to old versions of drivers or software. After doing this, restart the computer to see if the issue is resolved.

Restart in Safe Mode

If your computer trouble prevents you from opening programs or accessing the internet, consider running your operating system in Safe Mode. In Safe Mode, you will be unable to do many of the things you normally do on your computer, but you may regain the ability to uninstall programs or reverse any changes that could be causing issues. If your problem is caused by an issue in the Windows registry, you may be able to repair the registry using a utility or free program in Safe Mode.

Diagnose Faulty RAM

In the event that your computer does not turn on at all, there are still a few things you can do to diagnose the problem before you resort to taking it to a repair technician. One common cause of computers not turning on is faulty RAM, or memory. If you are confident opening up your computer and removing the RAM, do this, trying to turn the computer on with one chip at a time and alternating which RAM slots you put them in. If the computer turns on, one of your RAM chips is faulty and you can replace it yourself. If this is not the problem, it is likely that you have another hardware issue.

Don't Forget to Back Up Data!

If you are unfamiliar with computer hardware, it is best to take the computer to a repair technician at this point. However, if you feel comfortable repairing them yourself, connect to the internet using another computer and search for instructions and advice. The internet is a wonderful resource for repairing computers and you can find a solution to almost any problem online. One last word of advice: remember to back up your important data! Even if your computer is running fine now, you could run into trouble at any time. Good backups will pay off in the long run!

 

Thank to Buzzle Staff

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/how-to-diagnose-a-broken-computer.html 

How to Overcome Computer Rage

Most computer users today frequently face the problem of computer rage. Let us see what exactly is computer rage, and how you can overcome it.

You are busy working at your PC, and all of a sudden, the mouse pointer freezes, or the webpage you want to access seems to take forever to load, or you come face-to-face with an error message and cannot make heads or tails of it, or in the worst case, your computer crashes. What's your first reaction? Do you feel like smashing the keyboard, banging your mouse, and kicking the monitor? If you have answered 'yes' to any of the questions above, then you are a victim of computer rage. We are increasingly dependent on technology in today's world, and hence, instances of computer rage are on the rise. Venting out anger and frustration on the computer and other related devices when they do not function properly is known as computer rage. When the user cannot fix the problem, or when the problem occurs repeatedly, verbal abuse against the PC is a common way to let out the anger, and in extreme cases, the user can even get physical and bang the mouse, keyboard, or the screen itself.

Such displays of rage is also very common among players of computer and video games, when the user repeatedly loses or is unable to reach his/her game target. One of the most common causes of such rage is the appearance of the blue screen of death, which occurs when MS Windows encounters an error that is critical and non-recoverable in nature, and which usually leads the system to crash, and has to be rebooted.

Ways to Overcome Computer Rage

Rage or anger caused by computer trouble, frustrates workers, causes interruption in the work schedule, ultimately leading to deadlines not being met, which can further anger clients, and result in financial damages. Let us see how to tackle this problem.

• Always keep a backup of all your files. Store files online or transfer all necessary data onto CDs and DVDs. So in the event of a system crash, you can always retrieve your files even if the hard drive has to be formatted.
• Keep your cool. If you encounter an unexpected system error, do not use swear words or do something like hitting and smashing your PC that could actually harm the hardware. This will do you no good. You could physically hurt yourself and your actions may also cause monetary loss. Instead, get up, and walk away. Breathe deeply. Splash cool water on your face. Take a stroll, have a chat with your coworkers and friends and return only after you feel you have calmed down. You may even realize that you do not feel so frustrated after all. Try to look at things from a different perspective. You may be surprised to find the solution was right there in front of you, but you did not realize it because your mind was so clouded with anger.
• Call for help. Make a call to the tech support or IT help-desk of your organization, and ask them to come and have a look at your PC. If you are home, ask for help from a friend or an acquaintance who is good at troubleshooting such problems, or take your laptop to the store to get it repaired or call a tech support company and hire their services.
• Do not shout and express your anger at the people around you. It is not their fault that your computer crashed. If you have the tech support working on your problem, make use of the free time by completing unfinished paperwork, making urgent calls, or just chatting up with a coworker. Diverting your mind from the problem at hand can sometimes be beneficial. It will help you to think clearly and logically.
• If you face the same problem regularly, get to know the correct debugging and troubleshooting techniques. A little IT knowledge will always prove helpful, and you could even solve the problem yourself, instead of waiting for the tech support to show up.

With computers being used in practically every industry, hardware and software troubles are bound to be on the rise. It's up to you to keep a calm mind and not get perturbed by computer problems. Do not let computer rage control you. Learn how to control it so it does not interfere with your day-to-day activities.

 

Thank to Sailee Kale

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/how-to-overcome-computer-rage.html

Computer Keeps Restarting On Its Own

A computer that keeps restarting on its own is quite common. There are some specific guidelines you can follow to make it work properly. If you are facing similar issues, you need to take care of this issue immediately. To learn how to solve this issue, read on...

 

After a long day at work, you want to unwind, relax, and do light browsing on the Internet. Once you're finished with dinner, you are ready to turn on your computer and surf the web. However, when you go to turn your laptop/computer on, it automatically goes blank and restarts on its own. I wouldn't be wrong by saying that this is one of the most irritating incidents. And you can't just turn your laptop off and deal with it later. You want to get things done now. However, with a nonfunctional laptop, how are you going to even search for a solution. So I am assuming that you're at work at the moment or are using someone else's laptop to find the solution for this issue.

There can be several reasons why a computer restarts randomly. From virus to faulty hardware, the reason for your computer to not work properly can vary. Also, these days there are a number of hardware and software combination that can create a heck of a situation for the users. To revive your computer back to its original glory and to peacefully surf the Internet, read the rest of the article for a few reasons why your computer restarts as if it has a mind of its own.

Computer Restarting By Itself

Before you begin to panic and/or get disheartened, there are some quick fixes you can try to revive your laptop back to its original glory. And for that, you need to read the following steps carefully.

1. First of all, check all your hardware. If any hardware is loosely fit or needs replacement, you need to fix it immediately. Check the RAM (Random-access Memory) stick to see if it is corrupt. If that's not the case, check to see whether it is sitting properly or not. You may get an error message on your computer and the computer will restart. The same is the case with the hard disk. You can run a check with Memtest86. These are some of the most basic issues I've come across.
2. Many a time, an error message appears on the screen, instead of the computer rebooting on its own. This particular solution is for "system failure" errors. Go to My Computer and right click on it. Click on Properties and a small window will open. Go to the Advanced tab → Start Up and Recovery → Settings. In Settings, uncheck the box that says Automatically Restart. Click OK once, and then once more (click OK two times). This will help you analyze the issue instead of making the computer reboot on its own.
3. Another option to analyze why your computer keeps restarting on its own, is to restart your machine in safe mode. Wait till the computer boots up completely and your Windows is stable. If it does not reboot on its own, the problem is related to some software. If the computer restarts even in safe mode, the problem lies with the hardware or the operating system.
4. One simple, yet the most ignored reason for the computer to reboot is over-heating. Due to improper air circulation and dirt sitting between the CPU and the fan, the CPU gets hot and the computer shuts down. Make sure you provide good ventilation to your CPU, for it to work smoothly.
5. Improper drivers can also lead to a computer restart. To check this issue, go to My Computer and right click on it. Click on Properties and a new window will open. Go to the Hardware tab and click on Device Manager. A list will appear where you will have to check all the categories and if you find a yellow or red warning icon, you need to update that particular driver.

 

Computer Restarting at Startup

If the computer doesn't respond after startup and won't even let you boot up, then here are some tips that can help you. Remember, there's always a solution available. All you need to do is, follow the steps correctly.

1. A malicious code is a common reason why a computer restarts just after its starts. There are many computer viruses that get into your operating system and mess around with system files. Keep your antivirus software updated to get rid of or block any such virus. Also, installing a trustworthy antivirus software is very important.
2. A virus called bar311.exe can be the reason. To check if this is the reason why you are facing issues, click on Start → Run, type cmd, and press Enter. If your system reboots, then the virus is present. A registry tweak can be performed on the system to get rid of the virus. This virus attaches itself to userinit.exe file, which is responsible for the operating system to initialize the user settings and log in. The virus attaches itself with this file and starts every time the computer boots up.

Depending on exactly what the main issue is with your computer, perhaps the computer is freezing at startup, you can fix the issue easily. One of the main factors to remember, while using and working on a computer/laptop, is that fixing internal problems can give your computer a long life. It may seem challenging, for those who aren't "tech-savvy". But there is a way out; these easy-to-follow steps mentioned in the article. I hope these steps were clear enough and the next time your computer gives you similar issues, you'll know exactly what to do.

 

Thank to Sheetal Mandora

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-keeps-restarting-on-its-own.html 

Computer Careers and Salaries

Salaries earned by computer professionals have always managed to divert the attention of youngsters to this field. Let us know the computer careers in demand, along with the salaries, in this article.
 

The list of careers in computers is quite long, as there are many kinds of jobs are available in this profession. Becoming a network administrator, programmer, software tester, database administrator, hardware engineer, computer graphics designer, careers in the military, in criminal justice are included in the computer careers. Let us discuss these computer careers, and salaries drawn by these professionals.

Network Administrators

Proper computer networking is very essential in this world of advanced technology, to connect small or large organizations and share the resources. Whether these organizations are included in the Information Technology (I.T.) sector or not, does not matter in this regard. Career opportunities as a network administrator can provide you experience in areas like safeguarding people trying to infiltrate into the network, providing resources to connected computers in a network, preventing access to banned resources through computers, providing technical support, network security and taking care of the computer systems. These aspects of the job make it very lucrative and highly paid. The annual median computer networking salary is USD 55,000 and one can possibly earn much more than that, with some quality experience.

Programmers

Computer programmers work for software companies in the field of software development. Knowing programming languages like C, C++, JAVA, .(dot)Net, and expertise in web applications, which are the fastest growing concepts, is a must for people interested in computer programming careers. You can enter this field with a bachelor's or master's degree in I.T. The annual median salary in programming is around USD 65,000.

Software Testers

Software testers do the task of studying and analyzing the software developed by software developers, and detect flaws and errors in their functioning. The scope for this job of software testing is quite wide - it also has applications in preparation of software for games. Talented software testers earn a decent salary package of USD 60,000 or more. You can firmly establish yourself in this field by doing a masters program from a reputed university.

Database Administrators

The database administrators, who are also known as computer scientists, are usually engaged in tasks such as hardware creation, preparing robots, designing networks for data communication, maintaining the data communication networks, maintaining websites and storing the organized data. A suitable degree from a good institute, will help you bag a salary package between USD 50,000-USD 100,000.

Cyber Law

The field of cyber law is growing at a great pace and is creating many job opportunities for deserving candidates. In this course, you will be studying the basics of technology, digital contract laws, e-governance, the Information Technology Act, cyber laws issues, world scene in the field of cyber law and the issues of intellectual property in cyber law. There are many computer professionals earning USD 50,000-USD 80,000 in this field.

Graphics Designing

Graphic designing is one of the hottest computer careers, as graphic designers do a variety of jobs like website design, creating video games, logo designs for different companies, products and websites, and creating ads using software like photo shop. The multi-media designers work in the areas like animation, televisions by giving technical advice on many topics. The graphic designers are known to earn a median salary of USD 40,000, while there are many earning much more than this amount.

In the Military

People working in the computers department in the military require professionals to work in an office and handle the job responsibilities which are more or less same as that of the network administrators. Their duties will be troubleshooting the problems occurring in the networks, maintaining the networks, protecting the network from viruses, designing the software programs for the use of the military, etc. Since this is a government job, you will get all those benefits, incentives and perks which are enjoyed by other government employees. The salaries for government jobs are fixed by the government. You will have to work hard on your educational qualifications, experience and special skills to get these jobs.

Criminal Justice

Computer forensic investigators who are mostly computer engineering graduates, are known to work in the field of computers in criminal justice. You can get jobs in the law enforcement agencies and can earn a salary of around USD 100,000. This is one of the highest paying jobs in the computer field.

The information on computer careers and salaries in this article will help you to choose a suitable one as per your interests and inclinations. To succeed in these careers, keeping yourself constantly updated with the latest technologies and practicing them to gain perfection is of utmost importance.

Thank to Charlie S.

Article Source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-careers-and-salaries.html

How to Fix a Cyclic Redundancy Check Error

You do not need to call in help every time your computer faces minor glitches. Read the following article to get acquainted to the various methods to fix common PC problems yourself.

If you have a computer or PC, it will surely help in easing most of your problems. But with every computer comes along many headaches and complications, sooner or later. A computer is a machine and every machine breaks down sometime or the other. You do not need to run to the computer technician every time your PC crashes or is attached by a malicious software. If you know some simple solutions to the most common computer problems, it will help you save a lot of time and money. These glitches that can be solved by a common person like you and me in the world of computers.

There are many PC owners who think every time they face a problem with computer, they should contact professional help. True, but not every problem needs to be addressed by a computer expert.

How to Fix Computer Problems?

Problems with computer are divided into two groups, i.e., hardware problems and software problems. The hardware problems are related to the peripheral parts of the computer like the CD drive, hard disk, monitor, keyboard, etc. The software problems are more complicated. These problems include problems like modem problems, Windows not starting, drivers not found, etc. Understand what is causing the glitch and follow the standard procedure to solve the problem. The following are a few common problems and solutions to help you overcome the technical snag.

After Power Outage
Today there are many sudden power outages, voltage problems and spikes that can damage computers. These damages cause many technical and software snags and interrupt your work. This leads to loss of data, damage to the hardware, etc. due to sudden power outage. This is a solution to this trouble is use of uninterrupted power supply (UPS). The UPS can provide a constant flow of energy to the computer, even if you encounter a sudden power outage. This will provide you with ample time to save your data and shut down your PC, if needed.

Computer Performance has Slowed Down
You may notice your computer has slowed down considerably and even a simple command execution takes ages. This is because your computer is loaded with unnecessary files, fragmented data, corrupted registry, spyware programs, services, software, etc. that makes your computer slow down. Thus, you need to manage your programs and delete unnecessary data and software that you do not use or need, clean your registry regularly to help boost at least 30% of your computer performance speed.

No Sound from Speakers
You are in the mood to listen to some groovy music on your PC, but you get no sound from speakers, the solution to is to check the back of the computer and see if all the connectors are properly connected. The speaker or single stereo speaker plug should be put into the socket on the soundcard that has a mark Audio Out.

Computer Monitor Displays Fuzzy Images
A computer monitor is the display unit of the computer that is sensitive to electro-magnetic radiations. These electro-magnetic radiations are transmitted from the TV, radio, microwaves, dishwashers, washing machines, speakers, etc. Mobile phones transmit electro-magnetic radiations that is one of the main cause of monitor displaying fuzzy images. Thus, move away these disturbances away from the monitor and this problem with computer monitor will be fixed.

Computer Freezes with Blue Screen Hijacking Your Display
There are many problems that can cause your computer screen to freeze and blue screen to appear. This screen is called the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This may be due to a spyware or computer viruses that have affected your computer. You need to update your anti-spyware and scan your computer for any viruses. If your computer is free from any such malicious software, then you may need to update your hardware drive. A hardware drive that is not updated may cause the CPU to lock up and interrupt working of the computer. If you find the problem cropping up even after a hardware drive update, then you may need to increase computer RAM. When you increase the RAM, the computing power increases and you will also be able to avoid the computer freeze. At times, BSOD may appear due to critical errors in the driver, software or registry problems. Windows may have to repair or reinstall missing components. If you do not find any visible cause, it would be wise to call the computer technician.

Computer Reboots Itself Again and Again
Another common problem with computers. In order to fix the problem of rebooting itself again and again, you will need to check the hardware. You may have a faulty power supply, defective or dirty cooling fan, etc., that may cause the computer to reboot again and again. The dust that accumulates on the fan, makes it heat up faster and in order to cool down the computer automatically switches off. Thus, clean the fan and check for power supply. Following these simple steps will help you to solve these problems with computer.

Computer Makes Strange Noises
Noises and vibrations from your computer are a hardware problem. Many electronic parts can make high pitch noises. You need to switch off your computer and unplug it from the power supply. Now remove the case from the CPU and restart your computer. Locate the origin of noise and then switch off the computer and unplug it. It may be a faulty fan, loose wire or screw. This means you will need to call the computer technician to help you solve your problems with computer, regarding these type of problems.

Windows Having Problems in Shutting Down Properly
You may have come across the message 'Windows Shutting Down' instead of 'It is now safe to switch off you computer'. This is because a program has not unloaded itself properly that makes the computer insist to run a scandisk the next time you switch on. You need to close all the programs before your shut down your PC and if it is not done, the computer waits for the program to close. It may happen you get the message 'Do you want to shut this program down or wait' or you may not. When you don't get such a message it results in what we call the hanging of the operating system. The solution is not to install Direct X whenever you install a game. Most games have their version of Direct X that makes the files out of sync. Thus, install the latest version of Direct X and not the games version. You may need to also check USB devices, task scheduler, virus scanners, etc. and reinstall them if necessary. This will lead to correct installation and the problems with computer may reduce.

Computer Gives Error Messages on Start-up
Many times when you switch on you computer you see error messages on your screen. These messages may appear such as, abclink.xyz missing or damaged - press any key to continue. If you see this message, you need to press keys for about 8 to 10 times, before Windows actually resumes. This happens when you delete a program instead of actually un-installing it. If you wish to get rid of any program, go to Control panel ---> Programs ---> Programs and Features. Here, you will find a list of programs installed on your computer. Select the specific you wish to delete and click on Uninstall. The program will be removed from your system and next time you switch on your PC, you will not get any error messages saying a link is missing.

Low Virtual Memory
Do you keep getting an annoying message that says 'system running low on virtual memory'? If yes, it means your computer is running short of RAM, that is, Random Access Memory. So, to solve this problem, you need to increase the size of your computer memory. Windows 7 users need at least 1 GB of RAM, Windows Vista needs 512 MB of Ram and Windows XP requires minimum 256 MB RAM. Visit your local computer dealer and purchase more memory from him. The dealer may even install the memory for you. This will help you get rid of low virtual memory.

You can avoid these problems if you are aware of the various steps needed for computer maintenance. You should read the manual given with computer before you begin using it. Yes, the manual may sound Greek to you, but it's always better to know the simple precautions to be taken. The troubleshooting is not an easy task. If you do not understand anything or are still apprehensive about these troubleshooting, then it is a better idea to consult a computer technician. You have many articles on the Internet that help you find solutions to various problems with computer. You do not need to be genius to diagnose and troubleshoot a simple problem. Many times a bit of presence of mind and common sense will help you overcome obstacles of the technical world.

Thank to Batul Nafisa Baxamusa

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-problems-and-solutions.html 

Which is Better - AMD or Intel

This discussion is a decade old and will continue on for years to come. Both sides have a list of very convincing things to offer, it's up to you to decide which one is better, but here are the differences that can help you decide.
 

You may get the most fanciest of all laptops, with great features and looks. But then, what really matters is the real machine which lies beneath. And what I am talking about is the processor. Today, the market is flooded with quite a few processors, and amongst them, the most popular are Intel and AMD processors. Both of these just makes the buyer more confused and difficult for one to decide which is better, AMD or Intel. Well, let us find that out.

I still remember a few years back, I had invested a huge amount of money to get my PC, and this was about six or seven years back. It was huge and I had to clear quite a bit of space in my room to accommodate it. I am sure, if you must have seen them you must be knowing what I am talking about. They had huge CPU cabinets. Today, they would be hard to find even at the scrap dealer. Nowadays, what we have around is the laptops and notebook PCs. With more and more laptop manufacturers coming up with each unique feature in their respective machines, it really becomes a tough job to choose a laptop from AMD or Intel.

 

Amd Vs. Intel

For Laptops

Generally, most laptop users are concerned with simple mobility and the use of regular computer tools, like listening to music or watching a movie, using basic software like Microsoft Word or for the Internet. For these users, the main concern is the price. And that's why most would prefer to buy AMD; it will always be cheaper than an equally rated Intel counterpart.
The next tier of laptop buyers will always look for two major aspects when deciding to purchase a laptop, and that is the laptop performance and the price. They want a fast laptop that doesn't cost much and can be used to play decent single-player games. Again, I'd suggest the AMD because of the price.

For Desktops

A desktop enthusiast can get a lot better configuration on their computer because a desktop is cheaper than a laptop. Most desktop users today require at least some amount of gaming compatibility. This is where it gets a little tough to choose. There are some basic differences between AMD and Intel that I've listed below. Read them, find out what exactly it is you want to do with your computer and choose.

The Main Differences Between AMD and Intel

Outer Pin Structure

The reason you cannot use either processor on a single motherboard is the pins on the outside each processor. If you're buying an entire computer, you get to choose between the two, because both processors need a compatible motherboard. If you own a computer with an Intel chip inside it, you cannot use the same motherboard for an AMD chip. You will have to replace the motherboard along with the processor. This can be a problem as motherboards are quite expensive, therefore some users tend to stick to one brand.

Clocking Speed

If clocking speed was still a sole criteria for superiority (as it used to be in the old days), Intel would win hands down. But that's not the case anymore. Intel processors give you a higher clocking, which means they have a higher frequency of work done per second. That's just how it is built- Intel divides the total work down to the smallest possible divisions for simplicity and goes through it a high frequency. AMD, on the other hand, goes through data at a slower rate, but processes a lot more data per cycle. In the end, the amount of data processed by the AMD can be quite significant.
This is the reason why the processing frequency cannot be taken into consideration while selecting between the two brands. I only added this point to help you understand this, so you won't be confused by a dealer when he says Intel is better because it has more speed, just to make a sale.

Overall Performance

This is a rather tricky area. If you compare versions with the same ratings, you'll find that Intel beats AMD in most areas when it comes to performance. But, ever since AMD got hold of ATI, the AMD processor has a much higher compatibility with any ATI graphics cards. AMD started reworking their strategy at that time and integrated both systems quite well. So, if you're a gamer and want to buy an ATI graphics card, you'd be better off with an AMD processor.

There are, however, a few Intel processors that have integrated graphics support have turned out quite good for gaming purposes. As the market currently stands, the high-end AMD processors can give you only so much processing capability as the first generation Intel processors. Which keeps the performance market quite an open ground for the high-end Intel processors. If you're not really into gaming and want good performance for something like virtualizing your machine or video encoding, you can go with Intel.

Another category for gauging performance is multitasking abilities. For a software or an application, multitasking refers to its ability to divide its work into smaller pieces for faster computing. If you are using such software that allow multitasking, choose Intel, because of Hyper-Threading, a technique in Intel that allows faster, efficient multitasking.

Pricing

This is where the debate takes a huge detour. For all the numbers that Intel shows you to be better than AMD, there is one figure that most don't want to appreciate to be larger- the price. Current Intel processors may be better than AMD, but AMD processors are cheaper than Intel by 20% to 60%. Yes, that much. Most gamers will be under 30 years of age and they will agree that current-gen Intel is a little out of their reach. Which is why they prefer to stick to AMD. You can assemble your own computer with singular parts and AMD processor with a compatible graphics card for a price much, much lower than what Intel can go down to.

In conclusion, if you got the money, you can choose Intel. If not, AMD is just as good. Again, the type of computer or laptop you buy will heavily depend on what you're going to do with it. If it's just HD movies and stuff, you can buy a low-end configuration and save up on a lot of cash.

Thank to Aakash Singh 

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/which-is-better-amd-or-intel.html 

Hardware Repair: Computer Hardware Troubleshooting Tips and Tools

It's certainly frustrating when are you in the middle of some work on your computer, and experience some hardware problems. In such cases, you may want to follow some hardware repair tips. Read on to know more on computer hardware troubleshooting tips and tools.
The computer hardware includes devices such as the mouse, keyboard, monitor, printer, scanner, etc. All are machines, and can at some or the other time fail to function. However, you can perform some basic computer troubleshooting tips to make them functional. If they don't seem to work with the troubleshooting tools, you need to send them for hardware repair. Let's discuss some of the computer troubleshooting tips that can generally be used.

Monitor

If the monitor is not working, using the computer is useless as you can't view what you are doing. If it's not displaying the content, the first thing you need to do is to ensure that it has been turned on by pressing the on/off button. The next thing you have to do is to check if the cable which connects the computer monitor and the CPU is connected properly. If not, connect it in a proper manner, or remove and plug it in again. Also make sure that the cord which is used to power the monitor is plugged in the UPS the right way. If this doesn't function the monitor, you need to check both the cables turn by turn on a different monitor which is in working condition. If the other monitor doesn't work with any one of the cords, that cable needs to be replaced. If the other monitor works with both cords, there is possibly a problem in your monitor. If you are unsuccessful in starting your monitor, you may turn off the PC, restart it in few minutes, and then check whether the monitor is working or not. When all efforts fail, a professional technician should be consulted.

Keyboard

The keyboard is also an important part of the computer, without which you are unable to perform several PC tasks. The keyboard should be kept away from dust for its proper functioning. If it doesn't work, you first need to check its connection with the CPU. If the connection is fine, and still it's nonfunctional, simply try to connect it to another PS/2 socket, or USB port (in case of a USB keyboard). In case of wireless keyboards, special drivers are needed to be installed in the computer for proper functioning. Ensure that such drivers are installed. Also make a point to check whether the drivers are updated. Hold the keyboard in an inverted manner and remove the dust or debris which is hampering the proper working of a key or a set of keys. You can also remove dust with the help of a vacuum cleaner or an air compressor.

Mouse

If the cursor on the screen is not moving in a smooth manner, you need to check for dust or any residue on the trackball rollers which enable the computer to accurately identify the movement of the mouse. Remove the rear mouse cover which will let the ball come out, clean the trackball if needed, remove the dust or residue, put the ball in again, and finally put the cover back. Check whether this works. If the cursor doesn't move at all, check whether the mouse is correctly connected to the CPU. If it's a USB mouse, try to use a different USB port. There can also be possibilities of a virus, if the mouse pointer doesn't work in an acceptable manner. Run an anti-virus software and delete the virus as soon as possible. Also check if the mouse drivers are corrupted, if yes, reinstall them.

Printer

If the printer doesn't work, there is a possibility of a paper jam which normally occurs if the papers are not placed in the tray in a right manner. In case of bigger printers, you may need to open various printer parts to get to the place where there is a paper jam. This exclusively has to be done by a professional printer technician. Don't use tools to remove the paper jam as some components may get damaged during the process. If the printer doesn't turn on, the power cord may be loose, and needs to be plugged in properly. The cord which connects the printer to the computer also needs to be checked.

These are some of the very common computer hardware troubleshooting steps which can be followed before taking the PC to a professional hardware repair shop.

Thank to Stephen Rampur

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/hardware-repair-computer-hardware-troubleshooting-tips-and-tools.html

Computer Software and Hardware Installation

The advancing of computers and the related technologies, has brought vast changes in the software and hardware of the computer. The computer software constitutes the programs that run in it, while the hardware constitutes the monitor, keyboard and all the peripheral devices that are connected to it.

Computer Software Installation

The operating system of your computer is an important factor to be considered when you install any software. It is the program that is contrived to run the software on your computer, and is responsible for managing the software and hardware. Before you install a software, the first important step is to check the configuration of your computer, and the system requirements of the software. The configuration of your computer must match the requirements of the software to be installed. Sometimes, the software to be installed is compressed in a .RAR or .ZIP file. In these cases, before you install, you have to uncompress all the installation files and folders. To uncompress the files and folders, ensure that you have a decompression software application installed on your computer.

Every computer software comes with a 'Read me' file. This 'Read me' file contains all the instructions that are required for installation. Sometimes, when you install a software, it may ask you to install another program that is required for the proper execution of the software. The computer may even prompt you to install the supporting software after you complete the installation. When you install any software program, it is advisable to close all other programs and utilities. Some antivirus software applications may require you to turn off the firewall and disable the antivirus in order to install the software. When installing software applications related to computer networking or web browsing, it is recommended that you disable the antivirus and the firewall. Finally, to complete the installation, restart your system.

Computer Hardware Installation

With advancing technology, the computer peripherals are upgraded often. To install them, unplug all the power cords of your computer that are connected to the mains, before connecting the hardware. The hardware may include a CD that contains the software that supports the new hardware. Install this software before you connect the hardware to the computer, which must be restarted after a CD installation is complete. There are two different types of computer hardware. They are as follows:

External Hardware
The external hardware involves all the peripherals that are connected to the desktop computer externally, via various ports. These are USB, serial and parallel port, firewire, bluetooth, PS/2 and PC card. The external hardware installation can be done by a normal user, even without much knowledge of computers. The hardware is connected to the computer after switching it off.

Internal Hardware
The internal hardware is a bit complicated and requires some basic knowledge about the computer internals. The CPU cabinet is opened by removing the side panels of the cabinet. Identify the slot in which you have to plug your hardware. Plug in the hardware that is to be installed and ensure that it has fit properly into its slot. The side panel and the screws are replaced into their original places and all the wires are connected to their respective slots. The power cord can then be plugged into the mains and the computer can be switched on.

The computer software and hardware installation is very easy with some basic knowledge about computers. If some installation is complicated, you may ask a professional to install or help you with it.
 

Thank to Aarti R 

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-software-and-hardware-installation.html

Uses of Computers in Hospitals

Of late, computers are being included in hospitals and medical clinics throughout the world. Some uses of computers in hospitals do not involve treating patients but help medical staff and doctors to handle information and data in a better manner.
The invention of computers started the revolution of Information Technology (IT) in the world, bringing modern concepts into the world. In the past few decades, offices, factories and business adopted computers to enhance their performance. The next were the households to adopt the computers as their new form of entertainment. Today, computers, along with Internet technology are being introduced into hospitals to enhance the performance of the medical facilities that are dispensed.

Application of Computers in Hospitals

The importance of computers in medicine is growing and spreading rapidly. The only disadvantage is that a full-fledged installation of all the computerized systems in hospitals is a lengthy and costly process. There are however, some hospital systems which already work on the basis of computers. Here are some prominent uses of computers in hospitals.

Handling Medical Data

Every day hospitals and clinics which are attached to it churn out enormous volumes of data regarding patients, ailments, prescriptions, medications, medical billing details, etc. Such medical records, are nowadays recorded into medical billing software. Such mammoth databases are known as Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and Electronic Health Records (EHR). These databases are operated by a set of computers and servers, and come in handy during medical alerts and emergencies. The concept of EHR is a bit broader than the EMR, as the database is accessible from different clinics and hospitals. Thus, a patient's medical history can be retrieved from any hospital by medical practitioners.

Scanning and Imaging

'Tests' are medical procedures where specified components of the human body are scanned. A test can be as simple as a regular blood test or it can be a complex CT scan. This process is often referred to as a medical imagery. In order to increase the precision of such procedures, computers have been adopted and integrated into the testing equipment. The Ultrasound and the MRI are the best examples where computers have been adopted, in order to make the process faster and precise. Thus medical tests and tools have become more advanced as a result of the use of computers.

Examination and Monitoring

Many systems are underway for the development of medical monitoring which will help humans to properly monitor their own health. In many cases doctors and surgeons also use sophisticated computer aided equipment to treat their patients. Such systems and procedures include, bone scan procedure, prenatal ultrasound imaging, blood glucose monitors, advanced endoscopy which is used during surgery and blood pressure monitors. Basically these medical tests and tools provide significant convenience to medical practitioners. You will find that major laboratory equipment and heart rate monitors have already been computerized in many hospitals.

Advantages of Computers in Hospitals

There are significant advantages of using computers in hospitals. The importance of computers in hospitals has also increased drastically due to the fact that the procedures have to be speedy to cater to a larger population and the medical services have to be more precise.

To sum up, the advantages of computers in hospitals can be summarized as follows:

• Precise 'tests' and medical examinations
• Faster medical alerts, which are more accurate time-wise
• Enhanced data about a patients medical history
• Precision in diagnosis
• Precision in billing
• Automated updating of medical history

The possibility of computers uses in the medical field are endless, facilitating medical help to hospitals and clinics all across the globe.

Thank to Scholasticus K

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/uses-of-computers-in-hospitals.html

How Computers Changed the World

Computers have been one of the greatest inventions ever! They have changed the world by changing the way we think today and will continue to do so.

Fire is known to be man's first invention. But, little did he know then, that this effort was going to change his world so drastically. Since then, invention after invention, right from a wheel to a guillotine, changed a lot of things for mankind. Right from simple machines to complex mechanisms, these inventions have only brought about a sea change in the way we function today. For instance, invention of computers brought a technology in the world which had the power to multitask like none other machine created by man. It could store information, simplify tasks and organize work with just one instruction. Ever since, computers have been developed into smarter machines by honchos of leading information technology conglomerates.

How Computers Changed The World Over The Years

Revolutionized Business

Computers have changed the way a business functions in a large way. Back in the olden times, corporate houses rented spaces for running accounting departments. It took months together to figure out profit or loss that a business had made or suffered. Recording entries and other relevant data was done manually and most of it remained scripted. However, with the advent of computers, the concept of manual entries and use of human brain to remember and memorize company's financial operations became obsolete. This transformation was known as automation, which made computers the backbone of all new age businesses. Today, computers are used beyond bookkeeping purposes too. Almost everything that happens in an organization, right from its inception to its closure, is recorded, worked upon, evaluated and rectified with the help of computers.

Changed Our Lives

Imagining our lives without computers is next to impossible. Ubiquity of these machines goes to show our incorrigible dependence on them. Computers were initially used only in workplaces. However, they soon became a household name, which revolutionized everything from school homework to grocery shopping. When computers were supplemented by Internet, it caused a great shift in the way we functioned. It ironed out several creases in long distance communication. This gave an impetus to globalization, bringing the world closer and opening new avenues to explore the human reach. Over a period of time, computers enabled working from home, which created a new type of employment for many. This gave usage of computers, within the confines of homes a new dimension. As technology progressed, simple things such as shopping, booking tickets, buying a new house, searching for schools and colleges, applying to the same, researching for projects and medical information became a lot easier with entry of computers in every households. Thus, computers affected our lives in ways that remained blinded to the naked eye.

How Computers Change the Way We Think

Computer being an indispensable tool in our lives, has changed the way we think in more ways than one. Today, all you have to do to find answers is, just 'Google it'! The online world of blogging, instant messaging, chatting and social networking not only leaves virtual traces, but unites the world in a completely unimagined way. It has caused revolutions and added to the verve of celebrations in equal magnanimity. This powerful medium is the great mode of mass communication which affects out thinking by allowing people a platform to voice their opinions and stir discussions that have brought about a change in the world.

Computers have pushed us to see different worlds and experiences cultures. Although the growth is a virtual one, it's after effects are very much real. The revolution in Egypt is the latest example of how computers changed the world. Today the identity of information technology is computers. Invention of this machine has changed the world's perspective about cultures, economics, history and current affairs. The advent of computers has no doubt brought a revolutionary change in our existence, however it has a flip side too. Thus, using a computer for a better evolution in the coming decades remains a bigger challenge for the mankind.

Thanks to Mukta Gaikwad

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/how-computers-changed-the-world.html

Best Computer Brand

When it comes to computers, everybody opts for the best brand that is available in the market. Here is a brief elaboration of the best computer brands that can be found in the market.

Top Brands

1. Dell
2. Hewlett-Packard (HP)
3. Apple
4. Lenovo
5. Gateway

There are several computer manufacturers and brands that provide you with a range of hardware, desktops and workstations and even laptops. However, a major hurdle is choosing the right brand, as there are countless companies, that have many tempting offers for computers, laptops and desktops alike.

Best Computer Brands List

The following list is a compilation of brands that have gained a good level of reputation in the market. The sales, products, goodwill and popularity of such brands say it all. Take a look.

1. Dell

Another name that is known for efficiency is Dell. The company was started to make successful computers and that is exactly what it is successfully doing today. Michel Dell indeed has seen dreams turn to reality, as today Dell is one of the biggest producers of Laptops and Notebook computers, not to mention the enormous line of desktops. The basic motive of Dell is to make computers for every person and every place. Dell manufactures computers and laptops for students, consumers, businessmen and corporates. It makes computers for homes, schools, offices and even public places.

Merits

Huge product range
Excellent products or all purposes and prices
Giant RAMs and storage hard-disks

Current Notable Products*

Inspiron 15R
Vostro 460 Mini Tower
Vostro 3555
OptiPlex 990 Premier Desktop

2. Hewlett-Packard (HP)

HP is often known to be a prominent supplier of desktops and laptops to corporate clients. The company is also preferred by a large number of people, since it is also a manufacturer of office utilities, such as photocopying machines and scanners. HP has launched a huge series of desktops as well as laptops. Some really innovative products that have been launched by HP include, HP TouchSmart a touch screen computer and the famous HP Brio. If you are planning to go in for a desktop, then this is the best brand for desktop computers that you can avail.

Merits

Conservative energy consumption
Good colors and screen features
Sturdy and reliable
Has the 'business look'
Excellent range of peripherals

Current Notable Products*

HP Pavilion g6s customizable Notebook PC
HP Pavilion dv6t Select Edition customizable Notebook PC
HP TouchSmart 420t customizable Desktop PC
HP Omni 220xt customizable Desktop PC

3. Apple

The brand of Steve Jobs and the brand that maintains quality. Apple computers are known for their quality control, research and development and also their willingness to maintain a specific procedure of manufacture. Apple has successfully launched a wide range of computers that includes both laptops and desktops. The best brand for laptops on the market is of course Apple, due to its wide range of laptops that includes, MacBook, iMac and Mac Mini. A remarkable desktop computer that was released by Apple is the Mac Pro. Apart from the quality, speed and smooth running, Apple also caters to the style quotient. For personal use, this brand is the best laptop brand.

Merits

Fantastic apps and additional
Classic and elegant look
Convenient size
Sophisticated programing and technology
Very user-friendly
Sturdy hardware
Better hardware-software package
Classy Peripherals and add-ons

Current Notable Products*

MacBook Air
Mac mini
iMac
Mac Pro

4. Lenovo

Lenovo, which had been previously known as 'Legend', is a Chinese computers company which caters to all possible segments of the computer markets. International Business Machines (IBM) on the other hand is a giant that churns out computers for every possible person on the face of this earth. In 2005, Lenovo acquired the computers division of IBM. Lenovo is maintaining almost the entire staff of IBM in North Carolina in addition to an executive headquarters in Purchase, New York. In addition to that Lenovo will also be able to use the IBM brand name and own the famous 'Think' marquee/brand name for 5 years.

The product directory of both these companies is so big, that you will have computers working at every possible speed in it. The basic memorandum of the company is to supply computers to every working person. You will find countless companies using both the IBM and Lenovo brands. Essentially both brands put together, make the world's third largest computer business.

Merits

Huge product range (both PCs and Laptops)
A well established product range
Sturdy designs and good peripherals
Caters to all purposes
Highly competitive prices
Good business oriented computers


Current Notable Products*

ThinkPad Edge E525
ThinkPad T520
IdeaPad S205
Essential G770
ThinkStation C20
ThinkStation E30

5. Gateway

An Acer subsidiary, Gateway is a manufacturer of brilliant computers. The principle operations of the company include Netbooks, Notebooks, Desktops and LCD displays. Like Apple, this company is admired for its precision, research and development. Gateway computers can be used by both corporates and consumers.

Merits

Elegant looks
Economical and competitive pricing
Space effective, easy to carry
Good battery
Selected yet highly stylish range of models
(only netbooks and notebooks)

Current Notable Products*

LT2304l
LT2305l
NV55C17I
NV55C16I


(*note: It must be taken into note that the models which have been included in the tables, are the current models, they are constituents of other larger "series", "families" and "marquees". It must also be taken into account that the aforementioned are individual models.)

Just look for the features that you need and want, you are sure to get the appropriate device or model from major brands.

 

 

Thank to Scholasticus K

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/best-computer-brand.html#index

Best Laptop Accessories

Anyone who owns a laptop, wants to know what the best accessories are. Then again, we also need different options, for different price ranges available in the market. Let's check out the latest ones.

Essential laptop accessories are the things you should never forget to carry with you, as you never know when you might need them.

Laptop Bags: To carry your laptop anywhere, you need a bag. A laptop has to be protected from dust, rain, and the Sun. A bag can serve this purpose. There is a wide variety to choose from. You should specifically select a light, waterproof bag. Backpacks are also available and are a good option for students. You also get designer laptop bags and briefcases. You may even go for mini laptop sleeves.

Security Cables: Security cables are the cheapest, as well as the easiest way, to protect a laptop from theft. All you have to do is secure your laptop with a security cable. To attach the cable, a slot is required, which is present in almost all laptops. It is known as the Universal Security Slot.

Power Adapter: Power adapters for laptops are like fuel for bikes. Laptop batteries need charging. And for charging, you need a power adapter. Choose one which suits your laptop best. CyberPower is one of the popular brands in this category.

UPS: With a UPS, you don't have to worry about power cuts.

Mobile Printer: Searching for a printer can sometimes be tedious, especially when you can't afford to waste a single minute. In such situations, a mobile printer can be of great help. With a printer in your bag, you can print anything, anywhere.

Top Accessories

1. USB Drive: With a USB drive, there is no need to worry about losing data. Even if you keep the laptop at home, and only take the USB flash drive with you, you will have all the data on your computer, with you.
2. Laptop Cooling Pad: To avoid overheating, laptop cooling pads are the best option. Belkin is the most popular brand.
3. Cell Phone USB Adapters: This accessory is for people who cannot survive without cell phones. In your hectic schedule, if you don't get time to charge your cell phone, don't worry. USB adapters will do it for you. At the same time, you can work on your laptop.
4. Wireless Optical Mouse: Touchpads can sometimes be inconvenient to use, or they may not work. To avoid this, carry a wireless optical mouse in your backpack.
5. Laptop Headset: Some people like me, cannot work without music and it is not right to disturb the people around. So, for music freaks, a laptop headset is a boon. Just connect the headset to your notebook computer and enjoy non-stop music.
6. StashCard: StashCard is a separate compartment under a laptop, which can be used for storage.
7. Privacy Screen: This screen can help protect your privacy, while working on the laptop.
8. TV Tuner: Enjoy all your favorite programs on your laptop, with the help of a TV tuner card.

That concludes our review of the best accessories.

Thanks to Rahul Thadani

Article source: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/best-laptop-accessories.html