External Hard Drives

Buyers’ Guide External Hard Drives

Digital valuable for your life, and your external hard drives will help them stay safe, and accessible. We walk you through the steps you need to find the right one for you.

by Joel Santo Domingo

Backup, Backup, Backup. Although sounds like I’m giving driving lessons, I was really preaching about the need to keep our memories safe and working outside of the threat, and of ourselves (accidental deletion of files, etc.). While Microsoft and Apple have given us the tools on Windows Vista and Mac OS 10.5 Leopard, respectively, people still do not use the backup application. Windows Vista Premium Basic and there are quite easy to use Backup and Restore Center program that can automatically back up important folders such as Documents, Pictures, and Music. Vista Business, Enterprise and Ultimate editions have more advanced PC backup solution. Mac OS X 10.5 have Time Machine, a backup of External Hard Drives continue to provide the data and provide disaster recovery features. Digital life consists of digital photos, music, and videos from your camcorder home, and they are all kept very close to your fingertips, at 120GBto-500GB External Hard Drives in a PC or Mac. But what if you have a problem with your computer (choose one), and you have to take it to the local big-box store where you bought it. At that time the usual ways tech “fixes your problem” is by reformatting the hard drives and reinstall Windows or Mac OS X. Your memories, then the treasure, no longer useful digital life. There must be a better way.

With it, even though you have this tool, you need a SimpleTech t500GB SimpleDriveempat to store all these files in External Hard Drives on a PC or Mac running kablooey (which is bound to happen if you keep the old machine). Enter the compact disk. Compact hard drive like the one below capacity larger than most desktop hard drives and laptops to come, and they’re portable, boot! You can use it as an insurance policy for a laptop, or a shuttle data back and forth from your home PC to your work PC.

An external hard drives are the closest thing we have today to the digital attic. Sure, you can use DVD or (fear) CD-R discs to backup your files, but you really want to find “Disc 15, backup March 23, 2003″ to recover the image of Uncle Nick with a funny hat on? With 80GB capacity to more than 1 terabyte external hard drive lets you back up all your memories, and you can store it in a safe place such as a cabinet or even off-site relative at home, or use it to transfer your files to another computer. Small ‘portable’ or ‘pocket’ drive easily moved, only in a shirt pocket or use a laptop bag. But even bigger 500GB drive only child shoe box size, so that all external portable drives, up to a certain level. Seek and recover lost files is as simple as hooking up the drive and drag the files from the search window. Windows Vista and Mac Os X 10.5, there is a built-in backup utility, but this drive comes with backup software as well. There is a win-win all around.

The external drive must be connected to a computer somehow, and all of it’s USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 port, which can also work at USB 1.1 speeds slow if the old system. FireWire 400 (aka i.Link) is one of the connector technology, about the same speed as USB 2.0. FireWire 800, as the name suggests, is about twice as fast as FireWire 400. The fastest is the eSATA interface, which theoretically as fast as internal SATA hard drive, but so far restricted to support a high-end motherboard or add-on cards you might need to buy separately. Each interface is built into the drive, and it’s up to you to choose the right one for setup (Macs have FireWire and USB, most PCs come with USB only).

You can start with just a Western Digital Passport (160GB), which is a “pocket” of the drive with a 2.5-inch notebook hard drive mechanism in a sleek black case and has fewer interface and not have to worry about power. Pocket is the only USB drives, and works well with both notebook and desktop computers. They’re also a great way to bring a spare in your travel bag. (Imagine your laptop through a die in the middle of a trip to Singapore and understand your value.) Western Digital adds utilities such as WD Sync, which can make sure you have the most current version of the file on the drive.

Users with security issues (perhaps you no nosy coworkers or kids) will drive like the LaCie SAFE safe (500GB). Its 500GB capacity can hold pretty much all your photos and music, and still have room left over for the video. The integrated fingerprint reader that works is: Once set up, it works to keep unauthorized users from your confidential data even if they moved the drive to a PC that does not have the software utility installed. No security system is perfect, but it will keep prying eyes away SAFE.

The Iomega UltraMax (640GB) is a different beast. Its twin 320GB drives can be set either for RAID 0 (640GB capacity, the best drive space and performance) or RAID 1 (320GB capacity, safe because if one drive fails the other still has all your data). Which has UltraMax USB and FireWire taste of both, making it a good choice for those who work on both Mac and PC.

The biggest dog in this package is a CMS system Velocity2 RAID Backup (1 terabyte). Like the UltraMax, the Velocity2 drive and have two options for RAID 1 (500GB) and the RAID 0 (1TB). Where different is that the UltraMax is sealed, which means that if one drive fails you have to send the Iomega for this service. Velocity2 which has a pop-off front panel and pop-out drive. You do not even need a screwdriver. You can swap drive within 30 seconds after powering down the system. The ability to replace the drive quickly is important for people who make their living with their computers, such as graphics and database developer freelancer. Velocity2 drive which is pricey, but if you work on the multimillion-dollar project, whether it’s worth it. USB, FireWire 400/800 and eSATA all make Velocity2 one connected drive.

External hard drives can be an insurance policy you took on your digital life. You can not put you on the price of the memory, especially if they are lost to the ravages of PC glitches. Spending among the hundreds of thousands of dollars and a small price to pay for keeping the priceless digital life safe. Read on for our take on the latest.

For additional External hard drives consider that you could use in the same category as scsi-usb-adapter

Buy Computer Speakers

Buy Computer Speakers Guide

How to Buy Computer Speakers. Apart from the computer itself, the speakers are undoubtedly one of the most important peripherals needed to realize the ‘sonic’ potential of your computer. While the generic 2-speaker system will do it for workstation users on average, those of us who want to be perfect if the audio with games, movies, or music will need a good set of speakers (see know-you-are-buying-outdoor-speakers guide).

Buy Computer Speakers

Speaker of the computer system can run well over $ 200 CDN, but there are many solutions that are very good for buyers on a budget. However, there are some things that should be sought, no matter what the price range.

Buy Computer Speakers – Producer: Although the name brands tend to be more expensive than no-name country, they tend to have much better product in terms of sound quality. Reputation manufacturing companies ranging from the speakers is very expensive for the budget Klipsch speakers

Buy Computer Speakers – Quality satellite: ‘satellite’ is a fancy name given to each computer speakers. Satellite speaker quality is a big factor (in addition to voice) on the purchase of sound system. Chances are, if the satellite was built with cheap materials and thin, it’s not worth your time. Consider buying a satellite system with a lean towards the heavy side, so they are more stable. However, be careful: some companies put the weight on the speaker to make them appear to be ‘high quality’ products. Some satellites have slots for them on the wall-mounting. Others may come with a small stand.

Control volume can vary from the surround volume adjustment. Good speaker system also has a headphone jack conveniently located in one of the satellite. Also, make sure that the satellite is magnetically shielded for use near monitor. If not, you will see that the image on your monitor will look choppy and distorted. In the long term, not shielded speakers can damage your monitor.

Buy Computer Speakers – Quality subwoofer: The subwoofer is what produces the low-range sound from each speaker system. Many sets do not come cheap even with the subwoofer. Subwoofers contain large speaker that vibrates to create the tone is very low. General rule for subwoofers is’ the greater the stronger ‘. This, however does not always hold true. Subwoofer larger allows speakers in the more resonance, so a lot louder and richer tone. What matters is also a shed: timber attachment generally do sound waves better than plastic. Some subs also have a volume control for the sub itself.

Buy Computer Speakers – System Wattage: wattage system, where many companies who choose to exaggerate their ability speaker system. Wattage which essentially is how the relationship is strong and powerful speaker can. Generally, the higher the wattage the speaker can go louder without blowing out. Also, the tone will not sound as’ rich ‘with a more sophisticated system. However, there are two wattage ratings are usually given: normal (peak output under perfect conditions) and RMS (Root Mean Square). Note that the RMS wattage is always lower than the advertised ‘normal’ wattage. RMS wattage is to consider when buying speakers, because the size of how much power the speakers can handle safely for long periods of time.

The majority of your speaker system wattage generated by the subwoofer. This is because the sub requires a lot of energy to produce a low tone. Also, the bass tones to make music sound more full and deep, so that more power is needed to make a clear tone.

Buy Computer Speakers – Wiring / Connection: The wire used to attach your speakers to your computer system is very important. They carry electronic signals that tell how the speakers to vibrate and produce sound, so if low-quality wire, the sound may suffer. Strong speaker wires are always a plus, because they are more resistant to breakage and stretching. Also consider the length of time you buy your set. If the wire is relatively short, you probably will not be able to place satellites in which you want to.
The plugs that connect the speakers to the subwoofer and the computer must be high quality to ensure best signal transfer. They have to color code to help with the installation.

The plugs are connected to the sound card plugs usually analog, meaning that for the 5.1 speaker system, for example, you will connect the three plugs, for front, rear, and center. Some high-end system using the digital plugs, which means that only one plug is needed. Make sure you have a compatible sound card for this feature.

Some high-quality speaker system comes with adapters so you can set using the video game consoles and portable audio player. Although not necessary, if you plan to use the sound system to something other than computer audio, you can save money.

THX: Some very expensive set of THX certified speakers. THX-certified speaker set is the cream of crop, because of engineering to provide the best possible sound. They have a minimum amount of distortion and the sound is very clear. To take full advantage of THX speakers, you should have a THX-certified sound card as well.

Buy Computer Speakers – Type Speaker Systems: There are many types of speaker systems ranging from simple stereo speakers to the large set of 7.1 audio. Speaker set is usually classified with the number two of the period. The first number represents the number of satellites and the second the number of subwoofers. If you want quality sound, you must purchase at least 2.1 on the live system. The most common type of system is 2.1 and 5.1. For most gamers and movie-watchers, the best 5.1 system, because they are capable surround-sound depending on the sound card. 5.1 system can provide positional audio (you can hear things from different directions), while 2.1 can only provide a simple stereo system. Because most of the MP3 is encoded in stereo, a 2.1 system is sufficient for music lovers. However, the system can simulate 5.1 surround sound stereo mix by expanding the left-rear, right-rear, and center channel. However, the 5.1s are shining in the games and movies, where you can take advantage of surround sound hardware.

Others include 4.1 speaker configuration (5.1s without the center channel / speaker), 6.1, and 7.1. The 6.1 and 7.1 systems are usually quite expensive, but practical. With speakers who are expected to be placed behind the listener, it will be difficult to find places for them. Most people only use the table in front of them, not around them. Also, not many sound cards that can support 6.1 and 7.1 surround sound. A new sound card can, however, the decision lies in you. Which only has a significant advantage of 6.1 or 7.1 system for hardcore gamers or audiophiles.

Buy Computer Speakers – Sound: The ultimate determining factor in buying a speaker clearly how they sound. Many stores provide leading floor model that allows you to listen to music samples. More expensive system that tends to produce better, clearer sound. However, the decision is up to you. Price does not dictate the quality of sound.

To listen to what must be:

• Make sure that the highs produced by the speaker does not sound too ‘rich’, weak, or changed.
• Midrange vote should be clear and certain, has never changed.
• Lows should be exclusively produced by the subwoofer. If you hear the satellite to try to do the task subwoofer, then the producers may try to compensate for a weak subwoofer.
• All sound must be tied together well with others is not too strong. If you find the highs are too piercing midrange, or too hard, then consider the other.
• If possible, try the speakers with different types of audio. This allows you to experience the wide range of voice and make more informed decisions.

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Buy MP3 Player

How to Buy MP3 Player

by Tim Gideon

Choosing/ buy MP3 player that is not difficult, but one player does not fit all. People will be different from the players.

Think about how you will use the player. Joggers will almost certainly want a lightweight, flash memory-based device, since hard drives do not react well to the shock of bouncing around at any time; audio aficionados who want lots of music at their fingertips should keep their eyes on the level-capacity hard drive model . And if you want to see video or photos on the device, the display quality of a more important consideration.

Portable media players (PMPs), MP3 player or, to use the moniker generally accepted, more or less ubiquitous today. Most are in two or three players who have been-of the comments on the physical durability of this device because of planned obsolescence on the frustrating their firmware. Apple’s iPod line has grown dramatically since starting all over and has held top place in the PMP market. But to assume the iPod is the only feasible device in place which has the potential to rob their own players from the ideal lifestyle for you.

Here are a few things to consider before you buy MP3 player

Buy MP3 Player – Capacity
The greater storage capacity, the more songs you can do with you. Hard disk-based players still offer the highest capacity in the market at this time the classic Apple iPod and Microsoft Zune are sold in both exceed the capacity 100g, but most companies, like Creative, have begun gradually hard drive-based devices at once. At this time next year, we may have 64GB flash-based players in the market. After that, the next step-wise up to the capacity flash memory players have to exceed 100GB, which will be the death knell for hard drive-based players. Greater capacity can be useful for audiophiles who prefer lossless codec, or want to use the player as an external hard drive. Most people do not need that much storage, however, and hard disk-based players who have seriously hurt them far more vulnerable than their land-based flash memory.

If you are looking for tons of storage right now, check the hard drive from Apple, Archos, Cowon, and Microsoft. If the player a smaller-both in physical size and storage capacity-more interesting for you, a flash-based device is the way to go.

Buy MP3 Player – Design and Size
Still, it’s not all about capacity, and easy to make mistakes when buying a player does not get to know first. How many clicks from the main key is to get from the main menu to Now Playing screen? Is there a special button that takes you back to the main menu, or if you have to press back a million times? If it has a scroll wheel, if the wheel seems too sensitive, so the choice to select them without overshooting? The players can be of various sizes on? a pack of gum for a little smaller than a deck of cards. A good flash-based player should weigh less than 2 ounces. Hard-drive-based players run from $ 175 to $ 350, and range in weight from about 0.3 ounce to just over 6 ounces.

Buy MP3 Player – Supports file format
If you plan to buy the content-protected video or audio good-you’ll want to make sure the file type you buy will work with players of your choice. If you have an iPod or Zune, this option is pretty much made for you, but Among the most common type of audio file formats AAC, aiff, Apple Lossless, ASF, audible, FLAC, MP3, MPEG4, Ogg, WAV, WMA, and WMA Lossless. Several players, such as the Cowon A3, which is known to support the claim that file-can not create an iPod. If the file you are looking for flexibility, it’s worth exploring beyond the iPod and Zune and see the kingdom of A3, and the iriver Spinn and Lplayer model.

Buy MP3 Player – Screen size and resolution
And if you want to see video or photos on the device, the display quality of a more important consideration.
If you plan to watch the video, please note that not all players can play with the video screen, so that’s the first thing to check. In addition, the screen size may be the most important issue. Screen on the iPod touch is incredible and it’s a touch screen, to boot, but the only difficult beauty out there. Archos players generally have a very good screen, and other producers, such as Cowon and Samsung, have tried to compete in the big market players also.

The screen resolution is also an important consideration: you must display at least 2 inches diagonally, with a minimum resolution of 320 by 240 pixels. Ideally, the resolution will increase the size of the screen: 320 by 240 will not look very good on the big screen like that of the Archos 5, which has a resolution of 800 by 480 pixels with 4.8-inch screen.

Buy MP3 Player – Upload interface
Somewhat important to consider. The faster the player’s interface, the more quickly you can load music to the device. Some players let you transfer songs via removable storage cards. Speed is less important on players with smaller storage capacity that’s why larger hard-drive devices support faster interfaces (USB 2.0 or FireWire). If you want to see the video on your player, make sure that you have the fastest interface you can.

Buy MP3 Player – Special Features
Special features can be alluring in the PMP market. Sony’s NWZ-S738F Walkman is equipped with a built-in noise cancellation, Apple iPod nano which will switch to shuffle mode if you just shake it, and the Zune can wirelessly sync to your home computer (you have Wi-Fi). This extra bells and whistles-just fun for some time. That said, there are some “special” players valuable notes: The Pioneer XMp3 notes and save the contents of XM satellite radio, and the Haier Ibiza Rhapsody offers a full, on-the-go access to Rhapsody account. SwiMP3v2 sequel is directed to the direction you want to rock during those swimming laps, or Armed with wireless streaming features, Creative Zen X-Fi

Buy MP3 Player – Batteries
Somewhat important to consider. Hard-drive-based devices – especially those who play video – chew through batteries. Flash-based players who do not move a relatively energy-efficient. Most of the devices that run on both types of rechargeable batteries. Flash-based devices that can support a battery life of 20 to 50 hours, according to the specifications listed. Hard-drive players average about 14 hours the battery when running audio alone, they said specifications, but the video will be played drain the battery more quickly.

Buy MP3 Player – Price
One of the features you want all the people? A tiny price. If you are really cheap player is what you’re looking for, forget the iPod shuffle, and check the options and have more features but the screen does not cost more, such as the Creative Zen Mozaic or Sandisk Sansa fuse and SanDisk-Sansa-slotMusic-Player.

While some players are, without doubt, very expensive, some of the options below are not only affordable but may be on sale at this time of year, so make sure you bid for the best around.

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