iPad 2? What It May Bring

Behold the iPad in All Its Glory.
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One of the hottest gifts right now is the iPad, Apple’s latest creation. The iPad offers a variety of benefits to users, including the ability to take a portable computer with them. The tablet sized computer platform allows the user to do everything from scan the web to read books and even to communicate with others. The problem, though, is that it is a one sized, flat shaped device that leaves some room for improvement.

Recently, rumors are indicating that Apple, the famed iPod maker, is working on its second version of the product. The iPad 2 is likely to have some significant changes based on what customers have said about the product thus far. The new product is likely to have some ergonomic tweaks to it, too, which will increase its user friendly feel incredibly. The changes to the iPad may include things like a cut in sizing off the length of the device, and the width. The screen size, though, is likely to remain the same. The new iPad could also have a smaller bezel. That is the technical term for the black area that surrounds the actual screen. It is likely that the device will not slide around when you press on something right along the edges either.

Another change may include moving the speakers. This could help to keep the device distributing audio at a better rate. Another change may be to the ambient light sensor on the device. This could be moved to the back of the unit. It is also a possibility that the product will include the company’s new technology that is getting positive results, FaceTime. This program allows for real time chatting service on the device.

Though these are only rumors, there is little doubt that Apple will come out with a new version of the iPad in a short amount of time. The company is known for its ability to continuously change as the market warrants.

Are Macs Protected from Viruses?

In the day and age we live in, it has become incredibly important to find ways to protect yourself from the increasing number of viruses and other threats online. PCs, or personal computers, which operate on a Windows based system are known for their vulnerability in this area. Some people have even gone as far as turn to other software solutions as a way of protecting themselves from these threats. But, the question you should be asking is whether or not Macs, which are often the other option for PC users, are actually better protection than the PC.

Although it is more common to hear problems about viruses and other threats from the PC viewpoint, this does not mean that Macs are completely protected. In fact, there are some very specific threats that have occurred in the last few years that showcase the bigger threat that Macs face than what many people believe is possible. In other words, do not believe you are secure just because you have a Mac.

One of the main reasons that people do not hear as much about these types of attacks on Macs is because it is a simple numbers game. There are many more Windows based computers on the market and in homes than there are Macs. That means, simply, there are more people reporting problems including spam, viruses and malware. These same types of threats, though, are still present in the Mac framework. You just may not hear about them because there are fewer instances making noise in the market.

There’s no additional strength built into the Mac system that allows for these systems to be better able to defend against invasions like this. While many companies, including the manufacturers of the Macs, Apple, would like to let individuals believe that Macs are simply immune, that is not the case. If you do have this type of computer, it is still important to have some level of security.

Why Pick a PC?

The first developers of IBM PC computers negle...

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The rivalry between Mac users and PC users isn’t likely to die down anytime soon. Ultimately, you have to select the computer that best fits your needs. Although Mac enthusiasts would disagree, PCs are not without their own merits. These computers offer benefits such as:

Flexibility
If you love to change out hardware and software to have the latest and greatest system, go with a PC. More software is available for a PC, including freeware options. Macs are primarily created for design work, and that area is the one they most excel in. Because a Mac can’t be as easily updated as a PC, you run the risk of your computer being archaic in just a couple years.

Gaming Advantages
To maximize your gaming experience, the PC is the clear winner. The selection of games available on the PC is much greater than for a Mac, and video card technology and software like the xvid codec from open source software xvid continues to evolve as advances are made. You can easily upgrade a PC graphic card, with a variety of choices from inexpensive options to high-end cards. Often, you cannot upgrade a Mac, and when it is possible, the components tend to cost more than they do for a PC.

Costs
As prices have continued to drop, PCs are an inexpensive way to own a home computer, get your teen set up for email and the Internet, or create a network for a small business. Even laptops have come down in prices, with some as low as $500, which means you can get a portable option for very little cash, while the low-end MacBook Pro will set you back around $2000.

Support
When your Mac has an issue, you must take it to the Apple store for work. With a PC, you have more options if you need repairs. Again, the cost is generally less to fix a PC than for a Mac.

Purchased Software, Share Ware, Free Ware–What’s the Difference?

Gimp2-2
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Many people do not realize the differences between kinds of downloadable software. Software, share ware, free ware–they all have a download link and they are all readily available online, so why should you care if they aren’t the same? The differences lie solely in how you are allowed to use the program, which as the user, should be very important to you. Below are breakdowns of what each kind of software is and how you can and cannot use it.

Purchased Software

The standard software that most people are used to using. Purchased software programs you may be familiar with include Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW and the Microsoft Windows operating system. This software is professionally made and can generally be relied upon to be high-quality. Nearly all purchased software comes with some kind of technical support should it glitch or need updates. The catch is that none of this software is free; even downloadable copies must be purchased (if you find a copy for free download, it isn’t a legal copy) and many come with a unique key code to enter in order to prevent illegal distribution.

Share Ware

Often just as good as the average purchased software, share ware is free to use for a trial period (a week to a month, usually), after which it generally stops working unless you purchase a full copy. Some shareware programs allow limited use of the full program’s features, while others allow full use but limit the number of times you can save files created with the program. Some well-known share ware programs are Noteworthy Composer and the WinRAR compression software. May or may not have tech support.

Free Ware

Full programs free to use by anyone, even professionally. Generally as-is with no tech support. Quality can vary greatly, but free ware is great when you find a quality free program such as The GIMP or Inkscape.

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