Quick Fix For A Scratched Monitor

I'll be honest with you, i was one of those people who was afraid of tempering with expensive gadgets or any other form technology without getting an expect opinion, but one thing i noticed years back is that sometimes the solutions to some of our problems are right in front of us.

Scratches on your computer monitor can be distracting when you're trying to get something done on it. While you could take your screen into an expensive repair store who will tell you lies about ordering a new screen blah blah blah, there's actually a much cheaper way to fix it using a beauty product that's probably sitting in your home right now.

Learn how to make scratches disappear in a flash, check out the video above. Why pay anything when you have a lint-free cloth and a jar of Vaseline at home? Thank me later.

Keyboard shortcuts everyone should know

Using keyboard shortcuts can greatly increase your productivity, reduce repetitive strain, and help keep you focused. For example, highlighting text with the keyboard and pressing Ctrl + C is much faster than taking your hand from the keyboard, highlighting the text using the mouse, clicking copy from the file menu, and then putting your hand back in place on the keyboard. Below are our top 10 keyboard shortcuts we recommend everyone memorize and use.

Ctrl + C or Ctrl + Insert

Both Ctrl + C and Ctrl + Insert will copy the highlighted text or selected item.

Ctrl + V or Shift + Insert

Both the Ctrl + V and Shift + Insert will paste the text or object that's in the clipboard.

Ctrl + Z and Ctrl + Y

Undo any change. For example, if you cut text, pressing this will undo it. This can also often be pressed multiple times to undo multiple changes. Pressing Ctrl + Y would redo the undo.

Ctrl + F

Pressing Ctrl + F opens the Find in any program. This includes your Internet browser to find text on the current page.

Alt + Tab or Ctrl + Tab

Quickly switch between open programs moving forward.

Tip: Press Ctrl + Tab to switch between tabs in a program.

Tip: Adding the Shift key to Alt + Tab or Ctrl + Tab will move backwards. For example, if you are pressing Alt + Tab and pass the program you want to switch to, press Alt + Shift + Tab to move backwards to that program.

Tip: Windows Vista and 7 users can also press the Windows Key + Tab to switch through open programs in a full screenshot of the Window.

Ctrl + Back space and Ctrl + Left or Right arrow

Pressing Ctrl + Backspace will delete a full word at a time instead of a single character.

Holding down the Ctrl key while pressing the left or right arrow will move the cursor one word at a time instead of one character at a time. If you wanted to highlight one word at a time you can hold down Ctrl + Shift and then press the left or right arrow key to move one word at a time in that direction while highlighting each word.

 

Ctrl + S

While working on a document or other file in almost every program pressing Ctrl + S saves that file. This shortcut key should be used frequently anytime you're working on anything important.

 

Ctrl + Home or Ctrl + End

Ctrl + Home will move the cursor to the beginning of the document and Ctrl + End will move the cursor to the end of a document.

 

Ctrl + P

Open a print preview of the current page or document being viewed. For example, press Ctrl + P now to view a print preview of this page.

 

Page Up, Space bar, and Page Down

Pressing either the page up or page down key will move that page one page at a time in that direction. When browsing the Internet pressing the space bar also moves the page down one page at a time.

Tip: If you are using the space bar to go down one page at a time press the Shift key and space bar to go up one page at a time.

Variables that affect the lifespan of Computers

When you fork out a wad of money for a new computer, you expect it to last for the long haul, right?
While some parts of the computer could last decades under the right conditions, many of the most essential computer parts aren’t designed for the long haul.

The average lifespan of a computer is about 3-5 years. But there are many variables that can reduce the lifespan though, such as how much you use it and how hard you push it, environmental heat and humidity, dust, and insects.

But let’s start with the basics. The type of computer you buy will affect its lifespan.
Macs seem to last longer than PCs but they cost more and new technology renders old hardware virtually useless.
People with older computers usually replace the parts to bring them up to date with faster speed, wireless or cable internet, and more hard drive space.


If you buy the cheapest computers, you’ll run into lifespan problems too.
Cheaper models are built with cheaper materials, so if you’re looking for a computer that will last three to five years or longer, invest in a laptop with quality hardware.

Buy strong and highly rated brands and you are less likely to be disappointed. Regular care will help your computer last longer.
Regularly clean it, blow the dust out of the fan, keep liquids away from it, keep the monitor clean. If it is a laptop, carry it in a sturdy laptop bag and use a laptop cooler.


Many people are fond of working from their beds. Yes, it feels nice and comfortable.
But the downside is that soft surfaces like your bed retain the computer heat, leading to overheating. Overheating will cause laptop performance to quickly deteriorate.


Be particularly careful with the cord that charges the computer; they can easily wear out when bent beside the laptop’s plug-in slot that could lead to an electrical problem.


Computers used for gaming wear out the hardware faster than those used for simple office work.
Try not to overwork the computer – the parts can burn out. Also make sure you do not leave it running constantly, and avoid running it from the battery to get a longer lifespan.


Always use a firewall and anti-virus protection. Be smart about downloads and emails.
If you’re not sure a download is from a verifiable source, or it looks suspicious, you’re better off playing it safe.
The lifespan of a computer is dependent on how well you protect it.



Source: DailyNation

Laptop or Desktop

Are you considering buying a laptop or a desktop PC? Here are some tips that might help you. You’ll be faced with two options. Which one you end up buying will be determined by your budget and your requirements from the PC.
A desktop PC is one that will reside on a desk in your home or office. It will come with separate parts — usually a structure, which contains the brains of the PC along with a DVD or Blu-ray drive. It will typically also come with a monitor, keyboard and mouse.
A laptop, also called a notebook or netbook is an all-in-one device that is portable. It can be carried with you from room to room, between your office and home, or used while on the road. Laptops have a battery that can last anywhere between one and a half hours to eight hours, depending on the type of programs you use. Laptops have a built-in monitor, a built-in keyboard and a built-in mouse, and they can vary in size from 10 inches to 18 inches.



Performance

Back in the day, if you wanted a quick computer, you had to buy a desktop PC. Currently the performance of desktop PC’s and laptops are similar and, in some cases, equal. The only area in which desktop PC’s and laptops can differ greatly is in their ability to play games; although there are gaming laptops, they tend to be less powerful than desktop PC’s. If you want a computer to play the latest games, then you should definitely consider a desktop PC. If you want to buy a computer just so that you can view photos, use the Internet or type up documents and spreadsheets, then a laptop is a good choice.



Specifications

The key specs to look for when buying a laptop or desktop PC is the CPU, RAM (memory), graphics adapter and hard drive. The CPU is the brains of the computer; the RAM is the space where all your programs will be loaded (the more RAM you have, the more programs you can load); the graphics adapter (also known as the graphics card or graphics controller) determines how well your computer will play games; and the hard drive determines how many programs, music files, documents, videos and e-mails you will be able to store on your computer.



Laptops will generally have lower specifications than desktop PC’s, although there’s not much in it these days. A typical laptop might have less RAM and a smaller hard drive than a similarly priced desktop PC, and it will also have a less powerful graphics adapter. The CPU, which makes a big difference in computer performance, is often the same between a laptop and a PC. For the best performance in a laptop or a desktop PC, look for a model with Intel’s Core i3, Core i5 or Core i7 CPU’s, or AMD’s Phenom II CPU’s.



Screen size

When buying a laptop, you will need to decide what size screen will be suitable for your needs. A 15-inch (measured diagonally) screen means the laptop will be heavy, but you will be able to view a lot more programs on the screen at once, and in some cases fit more windows on the screen. A 14.1-inch screen offers a good balance between size and portability. You should look for a 13-inch screen or a 12-inch screen if you want a laptop that will be easy to carry with you when you’re travelling.
If browsing the Web, accessing social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, and viewing your photos is all you will be using your laptop for then a small and light 10-inch netbook will be all you need.

For a desktop PC, a 22-inch widescreen monitor offers the best value for money, and 24-inch and 27-inch models are also available if you want something larger. It’s worth spending a bit more on the monitor, and even upsizing to a 24-inch model if you can afford it, because the monitor is the one device that you will have to look at every time you use your PC.



Burning CD’s and DVD’s

Nearly all desktop PC’s and laptops now come with a DVD burner, even if you choose to buy a cheap laptop (provided it’s not a netbook). Most laptops have a DVD burner built in, but smaller laptops, such as slimline models, may supply a DVD burner as an external unit that needs to be plugged into the laptop. Netbooks do not have a DVD burner at all. With a DVD burner you can burn CD’s as well as DVD’s. Blu-ray combo drives are also available for PC’s and laptops. These allow you to play Blu-ray movies, as well as burn CD’s and DVD’s. A Blu-ray writer is required if you want to burn your own Blu-ray discs.



Software

Nearly all laptops and desktop PC’s come with a version of Microsoft Windows 7 preinstalled. They should also come with software for burning CD’s and DVD’s and watching movies. The brand of laptop or desktop PC you buy will determine exactly what software is bundled with the product. Some laptops and desktops may also include office application software, games or educational software. Many models may also come with software to protect your computer from viruses.



Buying a laptop

If you want a computer that you can use at home, as well as take to work, then you will need a laptop. Also, you may choose to buy a laptop if you want to have more freedom to roam when using your computer at home. A fully charged laptop can give you a few hours of use and will let you work from your living room, bedroom or even your garden. On the other hand, a desktop PC will restrict you to working from the location where the PC is installed.



Buying a desktop PC

If you want a computer that can store a huge amount of music files or a computer that will let you play games, then a desktop PC is a good choice. A powerful desktop PC is generally less expensive than a powerful laptop with similar specs, and a desktop PC also has an advantage in that it can be easily expanded if your needs change (you can add more storage, RAM or a better graphics card at a later date). A laptop cannot be expanded to the same extent that a desktop PC can, although you can change the hard drive and in most cases add more RAM. Finally, desktop PC’s are far easier to repair and parts can be replaced within 1-3 working days whereas laptops have to go back to the manufacturer, meaning you could be without a PC for several weeks.



The Portugal News

Basic Health Tips for PC Users

Regular computer users run the risk of several health problems. Most computer-related jobs require people to sit in front of the computer for longer periods.

The term “ergonomics” is derived from two Greek words: “ergon”, which means work and “nomoi”, which means natural laws. According to the National Pain Foundation, ergonomics is “the science of designing the job to fit the worker, rather than physically forcing the worker’s body to fit the job.” Workers who do more of “static work” or maintain certain postures for a long time develop something called repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) over a period of time. Ergonomists study such problems and define postures that minimize unnecessary static work, reduce the harmful forces acting on the body, and in the end, considerably minimize the risk of injury.
Stretch once an hour: Do not sit in a posture for more than an hour. Lean forward, cross your arms in front of you, hold your knees, and push your knees apart, keeping your hands on them. You’ll feel this stretch across your shoulder blades. Stretch your fingers, arms, hands, and torso at regular intervals.
Exercise throughout the day: Make sure you move your hands, legs, back, and neck every 10 minutes throughout the day. Get up and take short walks from your workstation periodically.
Maintain a good working posture: According to the US Department of Labor Occupational Safety and health Administration, the following are important considerations when attempting to maintain neutral body postures while working at the computer workstation:

• Hands, wrists and forearms are straight, in-line and roughly parallel to the floor.
• Head is level or bent slightly forward, forward facing, and balanced. Generally it is in-line with the torso.
• Shoulders are relaxed and upper arms hang normally at the side of the body.
• Elbows stay in close to the body and are bent between 90 and 120 degrees.
• Feet are fully supported by floor or footrest.
• Back is fully supported with appropriate lumbar support when sitting vertical or leaning back slightly.
• Thighs and hips are supported by a well-padded seat and generally parallel to the floor.
• Knees are about the same height as the hips with the feet slightly forward.

Place and adjust the monitor: Place the computer monitor at the recommended viewing distance and angle, adjusting it to the right clarity settings.

• Adjust your position at a safe distance from where you can clearly view the elements on the monitor and read the text without slipping to awkward postures. The preferred distance between the eye and monitor is in the range of 20-40 inches (50-100 cm).
• Adjust your computer monitor to be directly in front of you with your head, neck, and torso facing the screen. Your monitor should not be farther than 35 degrees to the left or right.
• Give periodic rest to your eyes by looking at far-away objects. For example, a clock or calendar on the wall that is away from your workstation. Viewing the monitor for a long period results in fatigue and dryness. You must stop, look away and blink at regular intervals to give your eyes the necessary moisture. Other non-computer tasks such as filing, phone work, etc., can help your eyes take the needed break from the stress.

Position the pointer/mouse to maintain a straight and neutral wrist posture: If the keyboard tray/surface is not large enough to accommodate both the keyboard and mouse, try one of the following to limit stresses related to reaching and holding:

• A mouse platform positioned over the keyboard. This design allows the mouse to be used above the 10-key pad.
• A mouse tray next to the keyboard tray.
• A fingertip joystick attached to the keyboard.
• Pointing devices attached to the keyboard such as a touchpad.
• Point devices such as mouse that have the right size so that they fit the hand.
• Mousepad with a wrist rest.

Keep the keyboards at a comfortable position: Placing keyboards, pointing devices, or working surfaces too high or too low may result in awkward wrist, arm, and shoulder postures.

• Adjust the chair height and desk height to maintain a neutral body posture.
• Raise or lower the tilt of the keyboard to maintain straight, neutral wrist postures.
• If you are left-hand user, use an alternative left hand keyboard, which has the keypad permanently affixed to the left side.

Adjust the location of frequently-used devices: Devices such as keyboard, phone and mouse must be placed within the repetitive access (primary work zone) area.
Use mobile and size-adjustable chairs: Desks that are not at the right height may force you to take awkward postures such as extending your arms to reach the keyboard or raising your shoulders. Make sure that you have adequate clearance space for your thighs, legs, etc. particularly if you frequently change working postures.
Seating: Opt for a chair that provides adequate support to your back, legs, buttocks, and arms. For example, an ideal chair for your workstation should have the following:

• Backrest that adjusts well to the natural curvature of your spine and provides necessary lumbar support
• Comfortable seat that allows your feet to rest flat on the floor or a footrest that helps you adjust the height
• Soft armrests that allow your shoulders to relax and your elbows to stay close to your body
• Five-leg base with casters that allow easy movement along the floor

Keep the phone at your reach: Most office workers cannot do without a telephone at work. Placing the telephone at the right place is as important as adjusting other workplace objects. Keep the phone close enough to avoid repeated reaching. Use a speaker phone or a headset for teleconferences or long conversations.
For more information:

• U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration:http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/index.html
• Ergonomics.org: http://www.ergonomics.org

chillibreeze