Your Guide to the Best Freeware

If you’re anything like me, you love free trials but can’t stand that thirty day “end of trial” notification. When you consider the low cost of most digital software, it’s certainly worth the expenditure to purchase full versions of some of your favorite or most used software. But with the kind of cost accrued in just a few purchases, you quickly find that you can’t get full versions of everything you’re looking for. Freeware is the answer to this little dilemma. If you can think of a costly software, chances are there’s a free version which offers the same functionality with only minor compromises in use. Here, I’ll give you a short oversight on the most essential free programs you ought to have on your computer. Check them out below!

GIMP (The Photoshop Replacement)

Gimp skyrocketed in popularity following its initial and Gimp 2 release. With a full set of features, Gimp is probably one of the closest imitations out there to the real product (Photoshop). While not quite there, Gimp is far from Frankenstein’s creation, blending a slick interface together with a huge range of image editing tools. This is a must have.

Office Starter or Open Office (The Microsoft Office Suite Replacement)

The full Microsoft Office suite is a major investment, and while I believe the full functionality of the Suite warrants it, there are free alternatives which have saved many a struggling college student from the cost. Open office is a free document suite which provides functionality comparable to Microsoft, but which is slightly watered down. Look out for compatibility issues. Office starter, on the other hand, provides similar functionality to the full Office 2010 suite but allows a sidebar ad to run in your window.

AVG Antivirus (The Paid Antivirus Subscription Replacement)

It’s dangerous out there: take this! AVG antivirus is a nice free and impressively functional antivirus/antimalware program for the average web traveler. Though it lacks some of the more extensive features of a full antivirus suite, it does provide the basic protection necessary for browsing the web safely.

Fedora (The Windows/Apple OS Replacement)

Building a new computer and forgot to account for the cost of an operating system? While I tend to prefer Windows over any other operating system, if you’re looking for a completely free operating system then you can’t beat Linux Fedora. Sponsored by Red Hat, the Fedora Project provides a free and open source Linux operating system for the tinkering computer junkie. Huge resources of open source applications abound, but beware: you’ll be running into a large amount of compatibility issues. There you have it, some of the best freeware from around the web! Whether you’re looking for computer how-to guides or more software advice, stop back for fresh content soon! Thanks for visiting.

High Performance, High Endurance: The Makings of an Enterprise Server

                For every problem, there’s a solution. This is true, but it does leave a little bit out of the equation when it comes to computers. When it comes to technology, it’s not just that there is a solution, but rather, that there are several solutions. This implies that the problem isn’t just finding a solution, but finding the best solution. In terms of computer hardware, oftentimes the best solution is one which can complete a priority task with the most efficiency. This is particularly evident as we observe the demands of enterprise level Information Technologies – while a dozen entry level servers might be able to meet enterprise level demands, this is hardly the best solution. Rather, an enterprise level server should meet the demands of an enterprise level business. But what goes into these highly powered, business optimized machines? Check it out below: the makings of an enterprise server.

Power And Performance: Primary Objectives

While multi-server arrays are nice, sometimes working double duty (or deca-duty!) is a necessity of situation. When businesses require a server which can perform a high degree of multitasking, multiprocessing, and can handle mission critical applications, they choose an enterprise level server optimized for such. So how does this translate into the server’s configuration? While, the space constraints for such a server necessitate a larger volume. Rack servers would, for instance, be in the 3U or 4U range, allowing for a large configuration.

Processor support should range in the quad core through deca core models, typically two to eight individual processors. Industry standard processor models would most likely be Intel Xeon or AMD Opteron, with clock speeds in excess of 2.0 GHz. Enterprise level servers also allow for a minimum amount of downtime, allowing for hot pluggable hard drives, hot swappable fans, and quick removal access panels. Typical enterprise level servers have anywhere between eight to sixteen internal hard drives, supporting several terabytes of storage. Standard hard drives for enterprise level servers are either SATA or SAS, though SCSI is a semi-popular model.

Due to the high degree of memory intensive multitasking, an enterprise level server should support a large amount of high speed memory. Memory configurations should range from the low hundreds (128 gigabyte minimum) up into the terabyte range (high corporate level servers). A good degree of network manageability and interface is also of key importance, especially considering the workload tasked with enterprise level servers. Though such enterprise level servers are often an expensive investment, oftentimes cost saving alternatives like the refurbished 487362-001 server provide a more viable alternative to factory-new models. Remember that enterprise level servers are meant to be powerful and comprehensive machines – tasking a less powerful server with such applications could have poor results.

Heating Solutions for Computer Processors: Liquid or Fan?

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. We’re all familiar with the old saying, but it holds true in a wide variety of applications, and computer builds are no exception. Thus, when setting out to build a computer system, you ought to focus on a holistic approach, applying (insofar as your budget allows) appropriate resources towards quality components. While many people spend all of their money on primary components like central processing units, memory configurations, high speed hard drives, and high performance motherboards, there are other components which must also be given proper consideration to truly maximize your computer’s build. One component which many people overlook when considering their ideal build is the cooling system – in particular, the processor cooling system. Let’s take a more in depth look below.

The Heat Problem

It’s a problem that all computer systems encounter, and one limiting factor in the development of consumer available computer hardware. As your computer performs work (yes, that includes even the execution of simple commands) the electrical signaling generates some small amount of heat. Now we crank the quantity of processes being executed up a full million, and the amount of heat generated by a computer system becomes much more substantial. Computers generate heat in their operation, and heat is the enemy of computer hardware. It’s a bit of a catch twenty two, but computer heat must be dealt with all the same, lest the heat cause hardware malfunctions or permanent damage.

One of the hottest components within the computer is the central processing unit, which usually requires a dedicated cooling system to sap the heat away during the course of normal operation. In the world of cooling, there are currently two option when it comes to processors: fan and liquid cooling systems.

Fan Cooling

Fan cooling works in combination with a heat sink to sap heat away from the processor. A fan is fixed directly over the processor and supplies a steady stream of cool air over the surface of the processor. The heat sink provides a direct thermal transfer from the processor and distributes heat over a large surface area, which helps in the transfer of heat away from that surface. Fan cooling is inexpensive and effective. However, fans can get large in high performance machines, and the main negative is a noticeable or downright loud fan noise.

Liquid Cooling

Liquid cooling works by transferring heat away from the CPU using direct thermal transference via liquid heat transfer. Liquid cooling is, on the whole, quieter than fan cooling and consumes less internal space in the computer. Additionally, liquid cooling is more efficient than fan cooling. Liquid cooling is far more expensive than comparable fan cooling. Which one is right for you? This depends on your intended application. A fan in conjunction with a good heat sink like the 41R6039 can provide ample cooling in entry to mid range computer applications, but nothing beats a liquidcooling system in high performance applications. Keep it cool.

IBM A31 Specifications: Business Deployments

                Stocking your business with computers can quickly become one of your most expensive undertakings this year. Between finding a reputable manufacturer and a quality configuration, you will quickly find that computer deployments will stretch your IT budget to its limit. Instead of going for the most high-end computer models on the market, many business savvy professionals opt instead to go for affordable computers which are ideal for the minimal demands of typical business computing. Large scale computer deployments can be an economic drain, but they don’t have to be, provided you find the right computer model. One of the most popular choices for large scale business deployments is the IBM A31 Thinkpad, a business optimized laptop. Check out the A31’s specifications below to see what makes it great for business performance.

The IBM A31, At a Glance

As discussed above, you shouldn’t worry about getting the fastest or most powerful computers for large scale business deployments. In this department, its function over form, and quantity trumps all. The IBM A31 is a somewhat dated model by today’s standards, but that doesn’t meant that the computer compromises quality or can’t match the expectations of the average business computer.

The IBM ThinkPad A31 is built with the same sturdy and professional design which IBM is well known for. Originally created for business and corporate work environments, the A31 retains many of the features which make it ideal for large scale business deployments. The Intel Pentium processor has a 1.6 GHz clock speed, and while this may seem slow compared to most of Intel’s i-series processors today, let’s just remember that the demands put on a business computer are usually very minimal.

The IBM ThinkPad is designed for Windows XP professional, and the processor runs the operating system with little to know slowdowns. The ATI Radeon 7500 graphics card is fine for handling pretty much every conceivable business applications, but don’t expect to be using it for high definition BluRay any time soon. The fifteen inch screen has great clarity despite the standard graphics card, and the forty gigabytes of internal memory should prove more than sufficient for any of the data you plan to allow your employees access to. The optical drive doubles as a CD-RW and DVD-ROM combo, and the plug-in module allows for quick customization.

 

The only complaint I had was the small memory configuration. With a standard of 256 megabytes, running all of your business applications at once will definitely produce slowdowns. Upgrading to a full memory configuration of one gigabyte is ideal and will greatly reduce any slow downs. Having reviewed the IBM A31specifications, you should have a good idea of what a budget friendly business laptop should be. Just remember to aim for business functionality and you should be well on your way to providing your employees with their own business laptop. Best of luck!

The DC5850 Advantage

Finding the right business PC for your company can be a bit of hassle. With hundreds of models on the market and thousands of possible configurations, you’re going to have trouble even breaking ground if you intend to research each computer build for performance and affordability before making  a purchase. Though there are so many options out there, it’s a good idea to start somewhere tried and true – if not for reaching a final decision then for researching what’s on the market and what’s doing well. HP’s DC5850 business PC is one option among many, but among many this business PC stands above the rest of the crowd, bringing power and affordability to the table which you will definitely want to take note of.

A Cursory Examination

The HP DC5850 is an excellent option for any variety of business implement. The DC5850 has a great configuration and a low cost which makes it ideal for mid to large scale deployments. The DC5850 sets itself apart from other business PCs with a fast and powerful AMD processor, utilizing triple core and quad core processing for excellent speed. Integrated DirectX graphics technology allows for rich and lush graphics, and dual monitor graphics capability allows you to expand your display needs as you see fit. Most employers opt for a secondary display, both for themselves and their employees, as a secondary display has been proven to increase employee productivity.

Beyond its excellent performance, the HP DC5850 also minimizes on power consumption. HP’s proprietary HP POWER Manager has been proven to decrease power consumption without compromising performance. Though you may not consider power consumption to be among your highest priorities, consider the amount of electricity a single computer takes and multiply it several fold. The more computers your business has running, the more power consumption should be a concern. The resultant savings from several DC5850’s running as opposed to a comparable computer will total in the hundreds. That’s certainly nothing to scoff at. The power management utilities are further complimented by ENERGY STAR qualification, making the DC5850 an energy efficient solution for the business.

It is also important to note the DC5850’s long lifecycle. As you build your computer bank, you may require additional computers in your system. The DC5850 is an excellent choice for its expandability and long term viability. The DC5850 incorporates seamlessly into existing computer banks, and will be able to keep pace with newer incorporated models through the addition of small upgrades such as RAM or newer processors. As a cherry on top, HP also included the HP Backup and Recovery Manager utility with the DC5850, ensuring your data is always protected and rarely at risk. The HP DC5850 is a comprehensive system, addressing the needs of the user, the purchaser, and the business manager in one powerful computer package.

Three Business Printers Explained

Whether you’re a writer, a graphic designer, or a shipping/tracking manager, you no doubt realize the importance of printers in the workplace. An on-screen display is nice and all, but sometimes there just isn’t a substitute for a physical object you can hold in your hand. But as with any technology, there isn’t just one printer which is perfect for all printing applications. As the three examples provided above prove, for each application there is a unique and exact nature for each type of printing project. In the business world, there are three main classes of printers which, in general, cover most professional needs. These three classes are: Inkjet Printers, Plotters, and Thermal Printers. Provided below is a short explanation of each class and an example of a printer within that class.

Inkjet Printers

Inkjet printers are the most common, and you are probably already very well aware of and familiar with these printers. Inkjet printers are an excellent implement at home and in the office, and are great for the printing of documents and low quality images. Inkjet printers vary in size, from desktop models which print a few pages a minute to industrial models (mostly used in offices) which print hundreds of pages a minute. Inkjet printers work by transcribing data from a computer, laying out the space of paper media into a grid. A printer head moves across this grid and “jets” ink onto the paper in the corresponding areas of the grid.

Plotters

Plotters are a type of printer which is used primarily by visual media professionals such as architectural designers, graphic designers, and advertisers. Plotters are great for professional photographic prints as well as large-scale poster prints. Plotters normally range from 24 inch print widths up to 60 inch print widths. Plotters operate differently than an Inkjet printer. Whereas an inkjet printer sprays ink onto the media, a plotter works by moving a pen across the paper and “drawing” out a picture. Plotters are great for printing vector images, and in general are capable of much higher-quality prints. Whereas an inkjet breaks a printing job into a grid, a plotter calculates the shortest route for the pen to travel, resulting in an apparently erratic (although mathematically correct) printing path.

Thermal Printers

Thermal printers are unique in that they operate entirely without ink. Thermal printers work by producing a reaction in the paper they print on. The paper is treated with a thermochromic chemical which, upon exposure to heat, changes colors (usually to black or red). Thermal printers feed paper under a thermal print head which heats an element to produce an image by exposing the thermal paper. Heated areas turn black, allowing for an inkless print to appear. Thermal printers are utilized quite often in thermal barcode printing. As an example, the Datamax R42-00-18000Y07 is utilized often in the production of shipping/tracking/inventory tags, printing two to four-inch tags for business applications. Each printer has its own area of precise application. Knowing which printer is best for you will greatly increase the efficiency of your future printer purchases.