Solid State Drives: Are they worth it?
August 19, 2009
What are solid-state drives (SSDs)? You may have heard of them. You may have seen them and wondered why they are so much more expensive than traditional hard drives. They have actually been around for quite a while. They are essentially just like a USB-flash drive. They have no moving parts, as opposed to traditional hard drives, which do have moving parts and can damage easier. For example, if a laptop with a traditional hard drive is dropped, it can likely sustain damage because of the moving parts. The same thing can happen if a computer is accidentally bumped or kicked. Solid state drives do not have that problem as they have no moving parts, though that’s not to say they are by any means invincible. Read more
The Digital Television (DTV) Transition
May 11, 2009
The digital television (DTV) transition is coming! Here is a quick FAQ about DTV and how it affects you.
Q. WHEN IS THE TRANSITION TAKING PLACE?
A. The transition to digital television will take place on June 12, 2009.
Q. WHAT DOES THE TRANSITION TO “DIGITAL” TELEVISION MEAN?
A. Currently, most TV stations are already broadcasting a digital and an analog signal. On June 12th, 2009 they will no longer broadcast the analog signal. When the analog signal is shut off, TV’s receiving content using an antenna will no longer be able to display programming. These older television sets can still be used with the purchase of a Digital TV Converter box Read more
Emergency Security Warning For Internet Explorer
December 17, 2008
There is a new, nasty vulnerability to Internet Explorer (IE). Simple web browsing has been reported to be exploited to well-known and usually “safe” sites. The vulnerability creates full access to your local computer, including the ability to install software and access files. Root-kits, Trojans and password recording applications have all been seen installed via this method. This has affected all versions of Windows and Internet Explorer.
Windows 7 Today
November 18, 2008
Many people are asking “What is Windows 7 going to do for us and when is it scheduled for release?” Even with the recommended hardware upgrades in place, Vista was more sluggish than XP. Microsoft has heard this complaint and has responded with a pending release, which is rumored to be in October of 2009. As we all know, this date will probably change to a later time, so don’t hold your breath.
Twin Cities Free Electronics Recycling
March 24, 2008
Coming up on April 11 & 12 Waste Management is hosting a free Electronics Drop Off. It’s only good for residential items, no businesses but if you have an old computer or TV sitting around that you want to get rid of it might be a great time to get rid of it without having to pay to drop it off.
The Waste Management Website has more information on dates, times, locations and what is and is not acceptable.
How to Tap IT’s Hidden Potential
March 21, 2008
The Wall Street Journal has an interesting article, How to Tap IT’s Hidden Potential. The article discusses how businesses can effectively use IT resources to help achieve a company’s desired goals. Your IT department doesn’t need to be an “endless money pit” that just takes away from the bottom line.