Essential Computer Accessories - Make Your Life Easier

What comes to mind, when you think of a computer? You might think of music, photos, video, internet, games, word processing, information and research.

When purchasing a computer, don't forget the important accessories you need.

A computer is more than a CPU. What accessories will you need to meet your requirements? Do you need a unique add-on to meet a specialized task?  Its important to determine the right accessories you need to make your life easier.

Take a look at some of the major accessories for a computer system.

Wireless Printer, Keyboard, Mouse.
A keyboard, mouse, and printer should be considered standard accessories for your computer.  Consider going wireless. Eliminates a tangled cord by using a wireless keyboard. One benefit of a wireless mouse is the ability to point and click on a computer screen from across the room and to operate on multiple surfaces.  A wireless printer allow you to relocate the printer anywhere in your home or office that's most convenient.

Surge Protector
A surge protector simply guards computers from electrical surges.
When a spike or surge in the voltage happens, your computer could be damaged or destroyed. Electrical surges can occur from a number of different areas, but most of the time it’s from lightening.  A surge protector contains a number of outlets to plug accessories into. The surge protector itself is then plugged into a standard wall power outlet. While it can serve to give the user additional receptacles, the primary use of a surge protector is preventing damage offers when an electrical surge occurs.

External hard drive.

An external hard drive allows the user to back up or store important information separate from the main CPU, which could become corrupted or destroyed by online or offline actions. Sensitive documents, large music files, DVD images, movies, disk images, and even a backup of the contents of your main CPU, can all be kept secure and safe on an external hard drive.
Consider an external hard drive to keep personal information and other sensitive documents secure. For a business, an external hard drive, can give you piece of mind knowing your records and transactions are secure. When you are ready to use the computer, you can plug in the external drive and have all your data and programs available. When finished, simply unplug the drive and take it with you.

Web cam

A web cam, or web camera, allows you to post video or photos on the World Wide Web. A webcam is essentially a camera that is connected to a computer.  Many chat programs support web cam like MSN Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, and Skype.

Scanner.

A document scanner can copy a physical item and transfer an image of it to a computer. There are several types of scanners, including flatbed scanners and sheet-fed scanners. A document scanner is designed to copy images or text on paper.

Memory stick and USB Flash Drives.
Memory sticks are handy devices that can be used to copy and store documents, photos, videos, and music from computer to take with you on the go. Normally digital cameras save on removable memory sticks.  USB flash drives are often known as "thumb drives" are used to transfer your computer files that are too big for email.

USB Hub

It seems nearly every electronic gadget manufactured today makes use of the USB port.
A USB hub is a small, light unit with multiple ports for plugging in USB devices. It is commonly connected to a USB port located on the back of a desktop system by using an extension cable. Once the hub is plugged in, you can set it wherever is convenient, avoiding the hassle of accessing the rear of the system. A USB hub is a great addition for laptops. netbooks, or desktops with only one or two USB ports.





These are a few of many different accessories for a computer system. Consider your requirements to get the job done. Then talk to IQ Computer Services about your options, and design a total system to fit your personal or business needs. From gaming to internet surfing, to business applications, or a home based system. You’ll be glad you picked up the phone.

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Protect Your Computer With Parental Controls

Children looking to explore the internet need parental controls to safeguard them online.

The days are over when a easy password was all it took for parents to keep their kids out of danger online.  Parental controls are more sophisticated to stay up to date with computer technology. Many parents may not even be aware controls are available to them. Most of the parental control tools available, function to block out or to filter content.

Add-on parental control software can monitor a child’s computer use in order to observe web sites, or chat rooms, and to intervene according to certain parameters, such as a match in a database of forbidden words.  Controls can also be applied to online content ranging from explicit songs to watching objectionable movies.  Controls may be used to turn off the computer during a specific time of day.

The Computer Usage Management Tool, unlike content filters, focuses on allowing parents to balance their child’s computer time by regulating game playing time. The main idea of these applications is to allow parents to put some education into the computer time of children, by having the child earn time for games by working through educational programs.



SOME CONTROLS PARENTS CAN PUT ON A COMPUTER:

Content filters
They will limit access to appropriate content, Content filters were the first popular type of parental control to limit access to internet.

Control of use or time
These control the use of the computer by placing a limit on the time a child can be on the computer, or not allowing certain types of programs.

Computer monitoring
Tracks location and activity when using the computer.

Computer usage management tools
Enables parents to enforce learning time a child computing.

Proxy Servers
A web browser sends a request for web content to the proxy server rather than directly to the web server. The proxy server then gets the web page from the server and passes on the content to the browser.  Proxy servers can inspect the data being sent and received, and intervene depending on various criteria relating to content of the page or the URL being requested.

Still don’t think you need to monitor the your childs computer use?

Several years ago, when my children started surfing the computer regularly, I monitored their use. I regularly checked the web history, and I quietly reviewed the pages they had looked at. One day I found all history had been deleted. They were told that if I found the history section deleted again, they would be banned from using the computer. I checked the web pages in history every 2 or 3 days. I wasn’t worried or concerned.
Imagine my surprise, when I was inspecting the history one day, and I noticed my daughter, age 12, was looking at dating sites! I also found a web page she had designed and set up about herself.  Today, there are social sites like facebook, and myspace and chat messaging that kids call fall victim to.  Don’t wait to find out the hard way. Call IQ Computer Services .

Intel's new technology.

Intel’s i3, i5, and i7 processors.
Raw Power….
Scary Speed….
Intel has trumped your tough applications.
Their newest processors are a revolution in technology.
They have the brute force to handle anything you can throw at them.
They routinely increase performance whenever you run that high end job, or they can become energy efficient to the point of shutting down a processor core to reduce the power usage when there isn’t a need for it.
These smart processors will adjust to your personal needs.

For those needing top-of-the line performance for intense gaming, multitasking, or demanding multimedia tasks, Intel’s smart processors optimize performance by automatically adapting to whatever task you are performing .
Turbo Boost Technology can deliver the processing muscle to power through demanding tasks like 3D gaming, media creation and HD video encoding.

The small business person wears many hats.
Sometimes there’s not enough hours in the day. Intel has made multi-tasking a breeze with their i3, i5, and i7 processors. Intel’s i3 can run circles around their old processor the Core 2. With i5, and i7’s Turbo-Boost, the name says it all. Lightening fast speed.

Computers equipped with a Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processor will provide you with solid performance for everyday applications. Designed for productivity at home, school or work. These processors deliver ample power for everyday multi-tasking, like enjoying and capturing digital media, home movies, music and photos.

Intel’s i3, i5, and i7 also deliver incredible performance for music, gaming videos, movies, photos, social networking, or other challenging applications. Turbo Boost technology adjusts performance to the workload, by allowing each processing core to run multiple tasks simultaneously. This is what gives the processor its zip.


Intel i3, i5, or i7 processor allows you to better manage your work, family or school workload.
Whatever you demand in a desktop computer, business or home, these processors, the i3, i5, or Intel’s i7, are able to give you the intelligent power for the job you need.

Let IQ Computer Services design a system that’s right for you. The professionals at IQ can answer all your questions about which processor and applications will best fit your needs. Talk to them today.

Intel’s latest and greatest Processors, The Wave of the Future

A computer processor is another name for the CPU. CPU stands for “Central Processing Unit”, and may also be called by the term “processor”. A CPU consists of electronic components that run the operations of a computer. The faster the CPU, the faster the computer can execute. The CPU can be thought of as the engine of the computer.

Intel has 3 new CPU processors. The Core i3, i5, and i7.
Intel’s last processor was the Core 2 processor. The Core 2 processors were pretty clear-cut. You had a Core 2 Duo (two processor cores on one chip), or the Core 2 Quad (four processors on one chip). The i3, i5, and the i7 processors are a step up over the old processor, the Core 2. These new processors are designed to make your PC run quicker and more efficient than the Core 2 processors they replace.

Intel has simplified things by paring everything down into three main categories, entry-level (Intel Core i3), mid-range (Intel Core i5), and high-range (Intel Core i7). The performance and features generally increase with the size of the “i” identifier number. In other words, Core i5 processors are faster than Core i3 processors.

With these new processors, Intel introduces a new technology. Its called Hyper-Threading. With the old Core 2 processor, it could handle one process at a time. The new Core i3 has a dual core base like the Core 2, but Hyper-Threading allows the Core i3 to run two processes simultaneously on each core. This allows it to perform four operations at once, instead of the usual two. This makes it a lot faster than the old Core 2.

Every computer contains an internal clock that regulates the rate, or speed at which instructions are executed. The internal clock also synchronizes all the various computer components together.
Computer Clock Speed, also called clock rate, is the speed at which a processor executes these instructions.

The Core i5, is almost identical to the i3 with Hyper-Threading, except that it will go faster still. The Core i5 processors have a new feature known as Intel Turbo Boost.
Turbo Boost is a system that automatically over clocks the processor to a faster frequency. In other words, this processor will run faster than the set speed of your computer. Depending on the application, the i5 may give you a noticeable difference in speed than the i3.

The Core i7 processors are available in 2 different chipsets. Both chipsets offer quad core performance, hyper threading, and Turbo Boost Technology. However, the i7 processors are considered to be slightly faster still, and the “top of the line” out of all the processors.
Both variations of the Core i7 CPU offer similar performance and in most cases that performance is unbelievably scary fast.

Intel Hyper Treading Technology uses the processor more efficiently. That in turn gives you improved performance, and lightning fast speed.

The future is here with the Intel i3, i5, and i7.
Which ever version you choose in the Intel Core series you will receive a first class quality processor.  IQ Computer Services can answer all your questions. The pros at IQ Computer can design a system that's right for you. Contact them today.

Extended Warranty / Accident Protection. Are you being smart with your investment?

A computer laptop is a important business and personal investment. It allows you the freedom to work wherever, and whenever you want.
If you are considering buying a laptop, or a new PC, look to add a extended warranty. It’s a purchase that pays for itself in the long run. Notebooks, (and PC’s) can be fragile creatures, vulnerable to experiencing problems.

Notebooks are prone to be dropped, and to get liquids spilled on them.
Let’s face it, all electrical appliances have electrical and mechanical breakdowns, and don’t forget theft.
A computer warranty is critical to cover your investment.

For students, business professionals, small business owners, and home users, a warranty can add to your computer's cost. However, one disaster a couple of years after your purchase may make the price of a warranty worth it. It can turn out to be a wise decision in the long run.

When buying a new computer, most are protected by the manufacturer’s warranty. But it will not last for the life of your system. Manufacturer warranties may cover a computer from as little as 90 days to as long as 2 years. When it expires, you are leaving your investment without a security blanket.
You may think your unit may function for years without failing, but the time will come when one or more components will fail. Then cost of replacement may be expensive.

Consider too, a problem can multiply on itself. For example, if you need a new motherboard, you may also need new software. A new motherboard may also require a new power supply and/or faster ram. Also consider the labor cost involved.

If the unthinkable happens, be sure to document everything carefully so you don’t forget, or leave anything out. When you call tech support, explain the problem as accurately as possible, including information on how it happened and when you first noticed the problem. Explain any attempts you made to fix the problem.
Some warranties will become void if you or anyone else performs any unauthorized service on the equipment, even something as insignificant as opening the case.

A computer extended warranty will give you additional years of safety and security. This means that you can still benefit from the coverage you had with your original warranty.

A extended warranty is a great money saving choice simply because you’re able save possibly thousands of dollars in component replacement costs or repairs.

If you use your computer for your business, or if you work online at home, shield your source of income. Protect your investment with a computer extended warranty. In the long run, you’ll end up saving money, which is the purpose of a warranty to begin with. Questions? Ask the experts at
IQ Computer Services

There are Viruses, after your computer. Protect your system with Norton

Norton Antivirus is one of the most effective antivirus programs available at protecting your computer. Norton AntiVirus takes that protection to the next degree.

Norton Antivirus gives you the speed, and protection your system needs. Norton delivers concrete performance and security. It uses new pioneering technology, that's also easy to use. The software is easy on your computers resources, and its specifically engineered for best possible defense. Norton, for AntiVirus offers a whole new methodology to online security.
Norton Antivirus adds some compelling features specifically engineered to catch the most lethal viruses out there. Antivirus is equipped to protect your computer from viruses, Trojans, worms, bots, spyware, rootkits, hackers, and other malware threats, whether they’re online, in emails, or IM messages.

Norton does a great job of proactively analyzing files to stop any suspicious virus. This proactive security doesn’t compromise your computer system performance. Several features have been updated in this release, including its Sonar technology. The new version is called Sonar 2.

This technology is based on a new concept called "reputation based" security. ‘‘Reputation scanning’’ checks files against a Norton database filled with data collected from Norton's user community.
Sonar 2 technology analyzes files and determines whether they should be trusted or not.

Reputation Scan provides information on the trust-worthiness of all programs and running processes on your computer. It helps you detect the files that are suspicious or at risk on your computer using the reputation-based threat detection. Norton Internet Security lets you run different types of Reputation Scans to detect suspicious programs on your computer.

Download Insight Protection helps determine the safety of downloads. Insight technology provides users with relevant information on files in their systems, and for more technical users, information about processes in Windows. Reputation Scan filters the files on the basis of certain filtering
criteria and performs a Computer Scan and an Insight Network Scan on the filtered files.

Protect your system with the best! IQ Computer Services can help you out with any computer problem you may have. Trojans, spy ware, or malware.  The specialists at IQ carry Norton and can answer all your questions too.

PROS AND CONS OF AN ALL-IN-ONE COMPUTER.

For individuals living in a small apartment, or someone who doesn’t have a lot of room to spare, an all-in-one computer can be the ideal answer.

When computer manufacturers started incorporating the computer cpu case and the monitor together, they created the all-in-one. they used the same features and functions as a desktop system.

All-in-ones have the monitor and the cpu case combined together as opposed to a regular desktop computer that has the cpu connected by cable to a separate monitor. This gives a all-in-one computer system a smaller overall silhouette than a desktop computer. Perfect if you need every inch of space.

A all-in-one doesn’t need cables running from the monitor to the cpu. This eliminates a lot of clutter caused by the cables. For an individual with a small work area, not having cables can be the space saving answer they’re looking for. Also, all-in-ones are designed more stylishly than a regular computer, perfect for the fashion conscious.

However, a regular Desktop computer may have a few advantages over the all-in-one PCs. Today, most all-in-one PCs feature notebook designed components. This helps make the all-in-one smaller but it takes away some of the overall performance of the system. Due to the smaller size there may be fewer components and less power.

Another issue that all-in-one computers have is their upgradeability. While most desktop computer cases can be easily opened to install replacements or upgrades, all-in-one systems tend to hamper access to their components due to their small nature. This typically confines the system to memory upgrades.

The one advantage a all-in-one computer has over a notebook computer is price. Because the all-in-one does not need to be transportable, the components do not have to be designed for movement like a laptop. This helps reduce the cost of building an all-in-one over a comparable notebook computer system.

All-in-one computers fill a niche needed by individuals looking for something cheaper in price than a laptop, that they don’t need to carry around. All-in-ones are perfect the users without a lot of space. Need more detailed information? Talk to IQ Computer Services, you'll be glad you did.

Is a NETBOOK (mini laptop) Right For You?

Netbooks are miniature laptop computers. They are thin, lightweight (3 lbs or less), ultra-portable, lean function laptops.  Most netbooks have a 10 inch or smaller screen. They have small keyboards, wireless capability, and don’t have DVD drives built in.

Netbook (sometimes called mini laptops), are best suited for basic computing (word-processing) and surfing the internet, and email. Netbooks are often advertised as companion devices, to be used in conjunction with a user's home desktop PC or full size laptop.
Netbooks may look like laptops, but they don't have the full capability of a laptop computer. Laptop’s have far more powerful microprocessors. A laptop contains more components and sport DVD burner drives. Laptops are larger in size.

A netbook fills the gap between smartphones and laptops. Netbooks, being more compact than laptops, have lower performance and power consumption. Video and sound chips are usually integrated. This tends to limit their use for gaming and entertainment. If you are a gamer, then a netbook is probably not for you.

Netbooks are not for everyone. They are were primarily created for two user groups.
If you travel and you want the ability create documents, check email, and browse the internet while on the road, then the netbook is designed for you. It’s a small device for people on the go that can be slipped into most glove compartments or purses. It’s designed for mobility, and with the ultra long battery life it’s an ideal laptop alternative.
Netbooks were also created for people who have a standard desktop computer, but don’t have a need for a regular laptop. The idea is that if you only plan on using the unit occasionally, the small keyboard and lack of a CD drive won’t matter, because you will use your desktop for all of your serious work.

Netbooks easily handle a lot of common computing tasks like Internet surfing, Email, Word Processing, and Spreadsheets, so if that's all you will use a laptop for, its not necessary to purchase one. A netbook will be a perfect fit, and you will spend a lot less money.


Those who need  extra portability , but don’t need all the laptop functions, choose netbooks appeal. They are more portable, compact, and less expensive, but still powerful enough to run regular every day applications. They provide most of the basic features you would need from a portable device, but are not made to become your primary computer. Got more questions? Talk to the experts at
IQ Computer Services

What is WLAN?

WLAN stands for Wireless LAN (wireless local area network) or Wi-Fi . This allows a computer to connect to the Internet wirelessly.

WLAN’s use radio or infrared signals instead of the traditional network cables. A wireless connection to the Internet is a more modern alternative than a wired network that relies on copper and/or fiber optic cables.
WLAN can link computers and different devices and provides a connection through an access point to the wider Internet. A access point is called a hotspot. This gives users the mobility to move around within a local coverage area and still be connected to the system.

A wireless network offers advantages and disadvantages when compared to a cable connection. The main advantage of a wireless network is mobility and the elimination of any cables. There is no limit to number of devices that can be supported. It depends on the bandwidth and physical layout.
A wireless network is not as expensive to install or expand. You can connect anywhere there is a signal. Set up is fast and easy. WiFi can be installed in an area where cables cannot be run, such as a outdoor area or in a historical building.

Disadvantages of wireless include the potential for radio interference due to weather or other wireless devices. Its possible a transmission can be slow, and security is harder to guarantee, so it should always be encripted.

Wireless is rapidly gaining in popularity for both home and business.
Wireless LANs have become popular in the home due to ease of installation and the increasing popularity of laptop computers. Your laptop can tap into the Internet anywhere in your house!

In addition to private use in homes and offices, Many public businesses such as coffee shops and malls have begun to offer wireless access to their customers, sometimes for free. You can now take your laptop down to the local coffee shop, and surf the net while sipping a cup of cappuccino.

Businesses such as airports, hotels and restaurants, often provide free-use hotspots to attract or assist customers. Some businesses use free Wi-FI access as a way to promote their business.

Thinking about upgrading your system to a wireless network? IQ Computer Services has the answers for you. Speak to one of their service specialists to decide if wireless internet is right for you. IQ can help you browse the web from anywhere in your home with IQ Computer Services Wireless Network Standard service. They are the wireless Internet pros..

Does your computer need to be backed up?

Computers can stop working. Your files can get destroyed, or your hardware can break down, which can cause you to lose all of your data. Always remember to backup your files. Deciding what to backup depends on your individual needs, and your business requirements. The rule of thumb is that anything that cannot be replaced easily or is very important for your business should have a backup.


Some files you should consider backing up:

• Bank and other financial information
• Digital photographs
• Software purchased from the internet
• Music
• Important internet bookmarks
• Videos and Emails
• Business documents
• School projects

External Back Up Hard Drive

What's on a Hard Drive?

Hard drives hold 3 main things. The operating system, applications or programs, and user data. The hard drive is a physical disk drive located inside of your computer. This is where all of your data and software is stored. All your files, games, software including your operating system is stored and accessed by the hard drive on your computer. If you take your hard drive out then your programs won’t run, and your computer will not start.


There are many different operating systems. The top three are,

Windows, Mac, and Linux

When a operating system tanks, not all is lost, because the operating system itself can be restored to the original default settings. You may lose your personal settings, but if you have the original software disk, you can restore it.  Software applications can be fixed too. Like the operating system, you may lose your personal unique settings, but the application can be reinstalled.

Data however, once lost is gone forever.
One common cause of data loss comes from malware or computer viruses. Sometimes you simply forget to back up your data. Remember, data back up isn't a one time event. It needs to be done on a regular basis.There are many automated software programs available to back up your computer.

Does your computer need to be backed up?

Consider this, if you kept all your financial papers in a file cabinet, and the cabinet caught on fire or was stolen, how would you recover the documents?  The costly downtime incurred while a computer is repaired, and applications are restored, can make the expense of prevention trivial by comparison. After a disaster, it is to late to explore preventive measures. To reduce the possibility of costly downtime have IQ scan for viruses, diagnose disc problems, remove viruses and create a working back up of your information.

Your business information is priceless. Without your data, your company can be literally out of business. In many cases, records cannot be replaced at any cost. If you can't afford to have even one day of down time, consider backing up your system. Having good data backup can guard against loss and more importantly, it can protect your business from disaster. IQ Computer Services offers solutions ranging from local backup (on an external hard drive), or media (DVD), also online backup too.

Protect your valuable, photos, music, videos and documents from loss by drive crash, virus infection with IQ Computer Services Backup PC service. They can even set up your PC to do it automatically!

COMPUTER VIRUSES

What is computer virus? There are a lot of different computer viruses and programs that will attack your computer.

IQ Computer Services specializes in removing virus from small business and personal computers. 

Malware is a name for malicious software. This a general term for any program designed to penetrate or harm another users computer, network or information system.
 
Spyware is a type of malware that collects bits of information about the user without their knowledge. The presence of spyware is hidden from the user, and can be difficult to detect. A spyware program is rarely by itself on a computer. An infected machine usually has many viruses.

Adware frequently refers to any software which displays ads, whether or not the user has agreed to them.

Computer Viruses are software programs that are intended to spread from one computer to another and to obstruct computer operations. A virus might corrupt files on your computer or even erase everything on your hard disk.  Worms can use your e-mail program or network connections to spread itself to other computers.,  Computer viruses are often spread by attachments in e-mail messages. They can be hidden in software or other files or programs you might download.

A Trojan horse is another computer program. This program claims to do one thing, but instead does damage when you run it. A computer Trojan or Trojan Horse can be a piece of software which allows a individual to remotely access your targeted computer. A lot of Trojans sneak into computers from websites. Most threats today come from the web including Myspace, Twitter, Facebook, and peer to peer file sharing. Once it has been installed, the different operations of your computer are open to the attacker. When the Trojan executes on your computer, the attacker has control over your computer, which can have destructive effects depending on the attacker's purpose.

PREVENTION AND RESCUE

The best way to prevent computer virus infection is by having updated antivirus software installed on your computer.  You can download a free virus protection program.

Whatever problem you may encounter, whether it's a Virus, Malware, Trojans, or Spyware, IQ can repair and fix your system. Safeguard your system the simple and easy way by having IQ scan your system before you have problems.  IQ will install, and update firewall and virus protection software to shield your computer system from intruders. Be pro-active, call IQ Computer Services before it happens.

Your busy schedule is no problem for the virus removal specialists at IQ.
Flexible hours allow work around your hectic life by scheduling a time that is best for you.
Whether its your personal or business computer, they have the experience and professionalism to fix your computer.