- Software Engineer, Responsible for designing and programming large-scale computer systems and applications.
-Link to average salary in Houston Tx, http://www.indeed.com/salary/q-Software-Engineer-l-Houston,-TX.html
-Link to educationl requirements, http://education-portal.com/articles/Software_Design_Engineering:_Educational_Requirements_for_Becoming_a_Design_Engineer.html
-Job openings,
*http://jobsearch.monster.com/Texas/Houston/Software-Engineer/get-jobs-125.aspx
*http://engineering.careerbuilder.com/JobSeeker/Jobs/JobResults.aspx?SB%3Asbkw=software+engineer&SB%3As_freeloc=Houston%2C+TX&SB%3Asbfr=30&sbsbmt=Find+Jobs+%C2%BB&cid=US&excrit=QID%3DA3853738220228%3Bst%3Da%3Buse%3DALL%3BTID%3D0%3BCTY%3DHouston%3BSID%3DTX%3BCID%3DUS%3BENR%3DNO%3BDTP%3DDRNS%3BYDI%3DYES%3BIND%3DALL%3BPDQ%3DPDQ471%3BPDQ%3DAll%3BPAYL%3D0%3BPAYH%3Dgt120%3BPOY%3DNO%3BETD%3DALL%3BRE%3DALL%3BMGT%3DDC%3BSUP%3DDC%3BFRE%3D30%3BCHL%3Den%3BQS%3Dsid_unknown%3BSS%3DNO%3BTITL%3D0%3BOB%3D-modifiedint%3BJQT%3DRAD%3BJDV%3DFalse&IPath=JRGCM
*http://www.engineerjobs.com/jobs/software-engineering/texas/
-I was surprised by the broadness of the career, there are many different types of software out there and very different fields. The one that caught my eye was on the third link. A software engineer for surgical products. It is insane to me that a software engineer plays a part in surgical procedures and the saving of lives.
-I selected software engineer because of the versitility of the job. There are jobs in various fields and in demand all over Texas. It also interested me because this job deals with applications on a large scale. As intriguing as this career is to me I seriously doubt that I would pursue it. I am not very good at sitting at a computer all day going through tedious activities, but it is a career that I could take into consideration.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Sunday, May 2, 2010
1. I currently have DSL provided by AT&T
2. speed- Downstream Speed: Up to 1.5 MbpsUpstream Speed: Up to 384 Kbps
3. Connection- My PC is connected to a wireless modem via cat 5 and my laptop connects wirelessly.
4. (A)my wireless network is secure, it is protected by a security code
(B) a firewall comes with my service, software
5. I do not have a real backup system, my school work is saved to a flash drive till I submit it and digital pictures are burnt to a CD. Other than that no backup.
6. I could but do not I use a network printer and access files from my network.
2. speed- Downstream Speed: Up to 1.5 MbpsUpstream Speed: Up to 384 Kbps
3. Connection- My PC is connected to a wireless modem via cat 5 and my laptop connects wirelessly.
4. (A)my wireless network is secure, it is protected by a security code
(B) a firewall comes with my service, software
5. I do not have a real backup system, my school work is saved to a flash drive till I submit it and digital pictures are burnt to a CD. Other than that no backup.
6. I could but do not I use a network printer and access files from my network.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Other Options
The one option that I would absolutely take is the external mouse. I already have a printer and have no desire for external computer speakers. I'm a pretty basic guy and dont see the need for all the extras.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Video Card & Displays
What video card is included in the technical specifications? List the brand, model and memory information.
What options do you have for the display? List the size, type, resolution and price of each option.
What are the differences between the two options?
What screen size and resolution and video capabilities do you need? Why?
Which option are you going to select? Why do you only need the included display option and not need one of the upgrade options? or vice versa, why do you need to upgrade? How does that help make your computer a "goldilocks" computer for you - just right - not too little, not too much? You need to strive to be somewhat specific; don't just say, "The included option meets my computing needs."
-Included video card: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X4500HD
-Display is a LCD Bright, glossy widescreen 15.6 WLED display (1366x768), only way to upgrade would be to go to a larger laptop and I do not wish to do so.
-All I really want is just what it comes with. I do not really play games on my PC so I have no real demand for a high end video card. I only occasionally watch movies on my PC so the included video card works for me.
What options do you have for the display? List the size, type, resolution and price of each option.
What are the differences between the two options?
What screen size and resolution and video capabilities do you need? Why?
Which option are you going to select? Why do you only need the included display option and not need one of the upgrade options? or vice versa, why do you need to upgrade? How does that help make your computer a "goldilocks" computer for you - just right - not too little, not too much? You need to strive to be somewhat specific; don't just say, "The included option meets my computing needs."
-Included video card: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X4500HD
-Display is a LCD Bright, glossy widescreen 15.6 WLED display (1366x768), only way to upgrade would be to go to a larger laptop and I do not wish to do so.
-All I really want is just what it comes with. I do not really play games on my PC so I have no real demand for a high end video card. I only occasionally watch movies on my PC so the included video card works for me.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Internal & External Ports
Externally Accessible
(3) USB 2.0 compliant 4-pin ports
15-pin VGA video connector
Integrated network connector 10/100 LAN (RJ45)
AC adapter connector
Audio jacks (1-line out, 1 Mic-in)
34 mm ExpressCard slot
Internal Card Slots
1 Half Mini-Card
I would definately use the USB slots and it would be extremely convenient to have three slots. I connect my phone, ipod, camera, flash drive, and probably more to my computer through USB slots. Although I've never connected my laptop to an external monitor I would be able to with this model. I may at some point want to plug in some external speakers so its nice to have an audio jack. The jacks are located on the back and on the side of the laptop and to be honest I really have no preference to the location. I have chosen a model with more RAM and more hard drive space than I currently require so I am not interested in adding any additional memory or extra hard drive.
(3) USB 2.0 compliant 4-pin ports
15-pin VGA video connector
Integrated network connector 10/100 LAN (RJ45)
AC adapter connector
Audio jacks (1-line out, 1 Mic-in)
34 mm ExpressCard slot
Internal Card Slots
1 Half Mini-Card
I would definately use the USB slots and it would be extremely convenient to have three slots. I connect my phone, ipod, camera, flash drive, and probably more to my computer through USB slots. Although I've never connected my laptop to an external monitor I would be able to with this model. I may at some point want to plug in some external speakers so its nice to have an audio jack. The jacks are located on the back and on the side of the laptop and to be honest I really have no preference to the location. I have chosen a model with more RAM and more hard drive space than I currently require so I am not interested in adding any additional memory or extra hard drive.
Computer System: Storage
What options do you have? List the size, speed, type and price of each hard drive option.
What are the differences between the options?
Go back and look at the system requirements for the software you need to be able to run? What are the storage requirements? (i.e. of all the software you specified as being used on your computer, what's the total hard drive space requried?)
Which option are you going to select? Why do you only need the included hard drive option and not need one of the upgrade options? or vice versa, why do you need to upgrade? How does that help make your computer a "goldilocks" computer for you - just right - not too little, not too much? You need to strive to be somewhat specific; don't just say, "The included option meets my computing needs."
-I have 4 options
*250GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM) [Included in Price]
*320GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM) [Add $45.00]
*500GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM) [Add $90.00]
*640GB 5400 RPM SATA Hard Drive [Add $100.00]
-The difference between these is storage space. 250GB-640GB
-20GB will be required to run Microsoft 7
-I chose the 320GB hard drive. I will want to save videos, music, and pictures to my hard drive( I have a lot of pictures because of my wife and 5 year old daughter). I went with the upgrade because I never want to run into a situation where I will completely use all the space on my hard drive, and I would like the ability to upgrade software with out worrying about having enough space on my hard drive. I currently have a full hard drive on my laptop and it sucks!
What are the differences between the options?
Go back and look at the system requirements for the software you need to be able to run? What are the storage requirements? (i.e. of all the software you specified as being used on your computer, what's the total hard drive space requried?)
Which option are you going to select? Why do you only need the included hard drive option and not need one of the upgrade options? or vice versa, why do you need to upgrade? How does that help make your computer a "goldilocks" computer for you - just right - not too little, not too much? You need to strive to be somewhat specific; don't just say, "The included option meets my computing needs."
-I have 4 options
*250GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM) [Included in Price]
*320GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM) [Add $45.00]
*500GB SATA Hard Drive (5400RPM) [Add $90.00]
*640GB 5400 RPM SATA Hard Drive [Add $100.00]
-The difference between these is storage space. 250GB-640GB
-20GB will be required to run Microsoft 7
-I chose the 320GB hard drive. I will want to save videos, music, and pictures to my hard drive( I have a lot of pictures because of my wife and 5 year old daughter). I went with the upgrade because I never want to run into a situation where I will completely use all the space on my hard drive, and I would like the ability to upgrade software with out worrying about having enough space on my hard drive. I currently have a full hard drive on my laptop and it sucks!
Computer System: RAM
What options do you have? List the amount, type, speed, and price of each option.
What are the differences between the options?
Go back and look at the system requirements for the software you need to be able to run? What's the highest recommended RAM requirements? (i.e. of all the software you specified as being used on your computer, which one required the most computing power?)
Which option are you going to select? Why do you only need the included RAM option and not need one of the upgrade options? or vice versa, why do you need to upgrade? How does that help make your computer a "goldilocks" computer for you - just right - not too little, not too much? You need to strive to be somewhat specific; don't just say, "The included option meets my computing needs."
- I have 5 options
*2GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Included in Price]
*3GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $45.00]
*4GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $90.00]
*6GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $150.00]
*8GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $225.00]
- The difference between these is the amount of data they process at once(2GB-8GB)
-Windows 7 64bit requires 2GB of Ram so this would require the most RAM out of all my software
- I chose to go with 4GB of RAM, probably could be happy with 3GB but would like the possibility of being able to upgrade software in the future that may require more RAM. This would be more than sufficient for me. I want plenty of RAM because I open up multiple tasks at the same time and do not want it to slow down my computer.
What are the differences between the options?
Go back and look at the system requirements for the software you need to be able to run? What's the highest recommended RAM requirements? (i.e. of all the software you specified as being used on your computer, which one required the most computing power?)
Which option are you going to select? Why do you only need the included RAM option and not need one of the upgrade options? or vice versa, why do you need to upgrade? How does that help make your computer a "goldilocks" computer for you - just right - not too little, not too much? You need to strive to be somewhat specific; don't just say, "The included option meets my computing needs."
- I have 5 options
*2GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Included in Price]
*3GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $45.00]
*4GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $90.00]
*6GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $150.00]
*8GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 at 800MHz [Add $225.00]
- The difference between these is the amount of data they process at once(2GB-8GB)
-Windows 7 64bit requires 2GB of Ram so this would require the most RAM out of all my software
- I chose to go with 4GB of RAM, probably could be happy with 3GB but would like the possibility of being able to upgrade software in the future that may require more RAM. This would be more than sufficient for me. I want plenty of RAM because I open up multiple tasks at the same time and do not want it to slow down my computer.
Computer System: Base Configuration, Form Factor
What general solution or form factor do you need? What size and shape of a computer do you need? Dell and HP both list options like Laptop & Mini or Desktops & All-in-Ones. And once you get to each area of the site, you have more choices: laptop, netbook, desktop, tablet etc. Which best meets your computing needs and why?
Once you've decided on the form factor, the question focuses on what class of machine. What sort of laptop? Dell has Inspiron, Studio, Studio XPS, Alienware, Adamo. HP has Everyday Computing, High Performance and Envy. Similarly, the netbooks and desktops have different classes of machines as well. Explore into each and get a feel for which class meets your needs. Once you have an idea, explain why you selected the class of machine that meets your needs? How and why does it do so?
Looking within the class of machine, you'll find several base models from which you can choose. For example, on Dell.com, within the Studio and Studio XPS class of laptops, Dell offers the Studio 14, Studio 15, Studio 17, and Studio XPS 16. Which of the base models in the class you chose best meets your computing needs? Why?
-I'm going with a Dell Inspiron 15, has a 15.6 widescreen led display. This best meets my needs because its mobile and it can perform all the functions of a PC. I also like the large widescreen for viewing videos and movies.
-I chose to go with the Inspiron model because of its capabilities and a pretty reasonable price. I also can upgrade hardware in various areas (i.e. processor, RAM, hard drive) to make this model perform even more efficient.
-I chose the Inspiron 15 model because it will best suit my needs. This will be plenty of computer for me. All I really use it for is school, socializing, and itunes. I do watch movies from time to time and this will be a plenty big enough screen for that. Also I carry my laptop around with me at times and to go with a larger model I would add weight to an already heavy backpack.
Once you've decided on the form factor, the question focuses on what class of machine. What sort of laptop? Dell has Inspiron, Studio, Studio XPS, Alienware, Adamo. HP has Everyday Computing, High Performance and Envy. Similarly, the netbooks and desktops have different classes of machines as well. Explore into each and get a feel for which class meets your needs. Once you have an idea, explain why you selected the class of machine that meets your needs? How and why does it do so?
Looking within the class of machine, you'll find several base models from which you can choose. For example, on Dell.com, within the Studio and Studio XPS class of laptops, Dell offers the Studio 14, Studio 15, Studio 17, and Studio XPS 16. Which of the base models in the class you chose best meets your computing needs? Why?
-I'm going with a Dell Inspiron 15, has a 15.6 widescreen led display. This best meets my needs because its mobile and it can perform all the functions of a PC. I also like the large widescreen for viewing videos and movies.
-I chose to go with the Inspiron model because of its capabilities and a pretty reasonable price. I also can upgrade hardware in various areas (i.e. processor, RAM, hard drive) to make this model perform even more efficient.
-I chose the Inspiron 15 model because it will best suit my needs. This will be plenty of computer for me. All I really use it for is school, socializing, and itunes. I do watch movies from time to time and this will be a plenty big enough screen for that. Also I carry my laptop around with me at times and to go with a larger model I would add weight to an already heavy backpack.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Processor, Motherboard & Buses
I have narrowed it down to 4 processors.
-Intel Dual Core T4400 (2.2GHz/800MHz FSB/1MB cache)-included with package
-Intel Core 2Duo T6600 (2.20GHz/800Mhz FSB/2MB cache)-add $75.00
-Intel Core 2Duo P7450 (2.13GHz/1066Mhz FSB/3MB cache)-add $135.00
-Intel Core 2Duo P8700 (2.53GHz/1066Mhz FSB/3MB cache)-add $225.00
I would go with the Intel Core 2Duo T6600, as anything else would just be over kill for me. I do not use my computer for much other than school and work and this would give me the right balance for my needs. I would want to upgrade my processor just because of viewing large media files and some computer gaming, I like to give myself room to grow for future uses.
-Intel Dual Core T4400 (2.2GHz/800MHz FSB/1MB cache)-included with package
-Intel Core 2Duo T6600 (2.20GHz/800Mhz FSB/2MB cache)-add $75.00
-Intel Core 2Duo P7450 (2.13GHz/1066Mhz FSB/3MB cache)-add $135.00
-Intel Core 2Duo P8700 (2.53GHz/1066Mhz FSB/3MB cache)-add $225.00
I would go with the Intel Core 2Duo T6600, as anything else would just be over kill for me. I do not use my computer for much other than school and work and this would give me the right balance for my needs. I would want to upgrade my processor just because of viewing large media files and some computer gaming, I like to give myself room to grow for future uses.
Computer System
I do know that I will be buying a laptop to best meet my needs and interests.
- Intel 2 dual core processor
- 4 Gigs of RAM, can never have too much and need to compensate for future uses.
- Minimum of 150 Gigs on the hard drive
- Minimum of 2 usb ports for flash drive, ipod, possibly a printer if not on my home network, and mouse
- I would just use the bulit in video card and sound card, do not do much computer gaming and do not connect aftermarket speakers to my laptop.
- Need bulit in wireless card for connecting to home network and anywhere with wifi, also a cat5 port just in case.
- Intel 2 dual core processor
- 4 Gigs of RAM, can never have too much and need to compensate for future uses.
- Minimum of 150 Gigs on the hard drive
- Minimum of 2 usb ports for flash drive, ipod, possibly a printer if not on my home network, and mouse
- I would just use the bulit in video card and sound card, do not do much computer gaming and do not connect aftermarket speakers to my laptop.
- Need bulit in wireless card for connecting to home network and anywhere with wifi, also a cat5 port just in case.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
My Social Networking Tools
I currently use facebook and myspace just to keep in touch with friends and family and share what is going on in my life without actually having to talk to them(that would take way too long).
http://www.facebook.com/
http://www.myspace.com/
There are many other social networking tools out there that I have not yet participated in.
Any future networking tools would probably be targeted to specific interests or professional networking.
Possibles
-Books iRead: targeted to books and opinions on books
-Flixster: targeted on movies and the quality of them
-TravBuddy.com: targeted on travel and experiences of others' travels
-GamerDNA: geared towards gamers, used for advice and opinions
-Talkbiznow: targeted towards buisness
All of these spike my interest, while most are just personal interests some can help me make a good decisions in everyday life. They all offer personal opinions on various things. Whether it be games, books, or travel information they could all assist me in life. Talkbiznow would be more for the future since I currently am only interested in the oil business(work for an oil company), but could give insight to my investments and future investments.
http://www.facebook.com/
http://www.myspace.com/
There are many other social networking tools out there that I have not yet participated in.
Any future networking tools would probably be targeted to specific interests or professional networking.
Possibles
-Books iRead: targeted to books and opinions on books
-Flixster: targeted on movies and the quality of them
-TravBuddy.com: targeted on travel and experiences of others' travels
-GamerDNA: geared towards gamers, used for advice and opinions
-Talkbiznow: targeted towards buisness
All of these spike my interest, while most are just personal interests some can help me make a good decisions in everyday life. They all offer personal opinions on various things. Whether it be games, books, or travel information they could all assist me in life. Talkbiznow would be more for the future since I currently am only interested in the oil business(work for an oil company), but could give insight to my investments and future investments.
My Email Platform
I currently use a free yahoo email account. This is an account that I created just to have an email address. The main reason I use this is because one of my friends suggested it and of course becouse its free.
I currently just need to send and recieve emails and send attachments. I do like spam protection, virus protection, online access, forwarding, storage space, and organizational tools.
3 Possibles
-Hotmail
-Yahoo
-Gmail
I have chosen Hotmail because of the storage and easy to use interface. Hotmail allows me to log in with windows live where I have access to my Xbox live and outlook. Also comes with top of the line security. Yahoo does not offer all the conveniences and storage space of Hotmail. While Gmail was right there with Hotmail I liked the convenience of my Xbox live with Hotmail. On a professional not I liked the organization offered by hotmail along with the storage space.
I currently just need to send and recieve emails and send attachments. I do like spam protection, virus protection, online access, forwarding, storage space, and organizational tools.
3 Possibles
-Hotmail
-Yahoo
-Gmail
I have chosen Hotmail because of the storage and easy to use interface. Hotmail allows me to log in with windows live where I have access to my Xbox live and outlook. Also comes with top of the line security. Yahoo does not offer all the conveniences and storage space of Hotmail. While Gmail was right there with Hotmail I liked the convenience of my Xbox live with Hotmail. On a professional not I liked the organization offered by hotmail along with the storage space.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Pop up blocker...Do I really need it?
I do not need a pop up blocker because my Internet Explorer has one built in.
3 different solutions
-PopUp Blocker Pro-free download-for PC's only
-Super Ad Blocker-free download-Windows 98 and up
-Super Ad Blocker 4.6-$29.95-Windows 98 and up but focuses on Windows Vista
I selected PopUp Blocker Pro because it works with both interne Explorer and Netscape which leaves my options open. I do not think I need any added pop up protection so I would not spend money on one I would have to purchase.
3 different solutions
-PopUp Blocker Pro-free download-for PC's only
-Super Ad Blocker-free download-Windows 98 and up
-Super Ad Blocker 4.6-$29.95-Windows 98 and up but focuses on Windows Vista
I selected PopUp Blocker Pro because it works with both interne Explorer and Netscape which leaves my options open. I do not think I need any added pop up protection so I would not spend money on one I would have to purchase.
Spyware/Malware
I personaly need a web filter to prevent malware from the web.
5 Options-
-Spybot Search and Destroy-free download-is compatible with Windows 95 and up
-Ad-Aware-free download-compatible with Windows 2000 and up requires processor 600 MHz or better
-Ad-Aware plus-$26.95-same requirements as the free download
-Malwarebytes-24.95-compatible with Windows 2000 and up
-MacScan 2.7-free download-for Macs only
I have selected Spybot Search and destroy and Ad-Aware free downloads. I selected the free downloads because the plus versions include features which are already covered by my anti-virus. I want both to get a more complete scan of my PC
5 Options-
-Spybot Search and Destroy-free download-is compatible with Windows 95 and up
-Ad-Aware-free download-compatible with Windows 2000 and up requires processor 600 MHz or better
-Ad-Aware plus-$26.95-same requirements as the free download
-Malwarebytes-24.95-compatible with Windows 2000 and up
-MacScan 2.7-free download-for Macs only
I have selected Spybot Search and destroy and Ad-Aware free downloads. I selected the free downloads because the plus versions include features which are already covered by my anti-virus. I want both to get a more complete scan of my PC
Thursday, February 25, 2010
My Virus Protection
5 possible anti-virus applications
-Norton anti-virus 2010
-McAfee anti-virus
-Avast! home free edition anti-virus
-AVG home free edition anti-virus
-Bit Defender free edition anti-virus
Norton 2010 costs $39.99 for a year subscription. This will stop and remove malware but does not protect home network or prevent hackers from accessing your computer.
McAfee 2010 costs $44.99 and provides everything Norton does plus backs up your data and manages your home network
Avast! free edition is of course free prevents and removes malware and also has a silent firewall to prevent hackers access to your computer. It also will scan your emails for viruses. It does not offer some of the addition convenience features that McAfee offers. (i.e. manages home network and back up data)
AVG free edition only includes anti virus and an email scanner. And is also a free download
Bit Defender is free to download and provides virus scans as well as scheduled scans.
All of these anti virus applications will run on Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7
I have selected McAfee anti-virus because it offers the best security as well as data back up and easy home network managing. Norton 2010 did not provide the extras that I would desire. If I were to go with a free download I would pick Avast! because it offers the most security with its silent firewall. AVG and Bit Defender do not have a free firewall and could make my computer succeptable to hacker attacks.
-Norton anti-virus 2010
-McAfee anti-virus
-Avast! home free edition anti-virus
-AVG home free edition anti-virus
-Bit Defender free edition anti-virus
Norton 2010 costs $39.99 for a year subscription. This will stop and remove malware but does not protect home network or prevent hackers from accessing your computer.
McAfee 2010 costs $44.99 and provides everything Norton does plus backs up your data and manages your home network
Avast! free edition is of course free prevents and removes malware and also has a silent firewall to prevent hackers access to your computer. It also will scan your emails for viruses. It does not offer some of the addition convenience features that McAfee offers. (i.e. manages home network and back up data)
AVG free edition only includes anti virus and an email scanner. And is also a free download
Bit Defender is free to download and provides virus scans as well as scheduled scans.
All of these anti virus applications will run on Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7
I have selected McAfee anti-virus because it offers the best security as well as data back up and easy home network managing. Norton 2010 did not provide the extras that I would desire. If I were to go with a free download I would pick Avast! because it offers the most security with its silent firewall. AVG and Bit Defender do not have a free firewall and could make my computer succeptable to hacker attacks.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Windows OS that best meets my personal computing needs
Three different kinds of Windows OS that I can use on my computer are
-Windows Me
-XP Home Edition
-XP Professional
I have chosen Windows XP Home Edition for a few reasons. First XP home has everything I need and not extras that I will not use. I mainly use my computer for school and entertainment. XP Home comes with everything I require to finish my assignments and listen/view all my media. I do not need to be a server in a remote desktop connection. I have no need for dynamic disk support. And I do not need certain networking features such as an SAP agent.
One open source operating system that I could instal on a new PC is Linux. This operating system is free to download as well as be purchased with more support. When using Linux OS you can choose the look of windows or mac for easy use.
With my current computer I could not use a operating system more recent than XP. To efficiently run Vista or Windows 7 OS there is a minimum RAM required and my computer is at that minimum. Even with the Vista Home Basic I would be at the max of my RAM and would more than likely experience sluggish performance.
-Windows Me
-XP Home Edition
-XP Professional
I have chosen Windows XP Home Edition for a few reasons. First XP home has everything I need and not extras that I will not use. I mainly use my computer for school and entertainment. XP Home comes with everything I require to finish my assignments and listen/view all my media. I do not need to be a server in a remote desktop connection. I have no need for dynamic disk support. And I do not need certain networking features such as an SAP agent.
One open source operating system that I could instal on a new PC is Linux. This operating system is free to download as well as be purchased with more support. When using Linux OS you can choose the look of windows or mac for easy use.
With my current computer I could not use a operating system more recent than XP. To efficiently run Vista or Windows 7 OS there is a minimum RAM required and my computer is at that minimum. Even with the Vista Home Basic I would be at the max of my RAM and would more than likely experience sluggish performance.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
"The Good, The Bad & The Ugly"
Good Source
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/everest/earth/birth.html
-The URL tells me that this was posted by a reputable organiation
-The author is Roger Bilham and was last revised in 2000, which for this particular subject is more than current enough
-The site is well known and not a copied site. It can not be edited externally.
-According to Alexa.com the site recieved 4 out of 5 stars, only criticism is that they did not use flash player on their site.
-The purpose of this site is to provide the basics of how the Himalayan Mountains were formed. There are other sites that go into greater detail but this is a good source for the fundamentals.
Bad Source
http://www.uttaranchal.ws/him.htm
-The URL tells me that this is a file extention
-The author is not noted only a copyright to Microsoft
-The site does not seem to be from an educational institute and could be falsified.
-There are no reviews on this site at Alexa.com which tells me not many people even attempt to use this as a source.
-The purpose of this site is to describe the formation of the Himalayan Mountains, there are definately better sources out there.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/everest/earth/birth.html
-The URL tells me that this was posted by a reputable organiation
-The author is Roger Bilham and was last revised in 2000, which for this particular subject is more than current enough
-The site is well known and not a copied site. It can not be edited externally.
-According to Alexa.com the site recieved 4 out of 5 stars, only criticism is that they did not use flash player on their site.
-The purpose of this site is to provide the basics of how the Himalayan Mountains were formed. There are other sites that go into greater detail but this is a good source for the fundamentals.
Bad Source
http://www.uttaranchal.ws/him.htm
-The URL tells me that this is a file extention
-The author is not noted only a copyright to Microsoft
-The site does not seem to be from an educational institute and could be falsified.
-There are no reviews on this site at Alexa.com which tells me not many people even attempt to use this as a source.
-The purpose of this site is to describe the formation of the Himalayan Mountains, there are definately better sources out there.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
All the news thats fit to "print"...
- How many internet users are there in the world?
- Who is allowed to publish information via the internet?
According to my search results there are 1,733,993,741 internet users worldwide. The following is a link to the sire where I found the information.
http://www.internetworldstats.com/stats.htm
Anybody with access to a computer and internet can publish information via the internet.
http://131.193.153.231/www/issues/issue2/content/
http://salimismail.com/?p=12
There are an outstanding number of internet users worldwide. We should all be cautious when searching for information in the internet and confirm that the source of our information is a reliable source.
- Who is allowed to publish information via the internet?
According to my search results there are 1,733,993,741 internet users worldwide. The following is a link to the sire where I found the information.
http://www.internetworldstats.com/stats.htm
Anybody with access to a computer and internet can publish information via the internet.
http://131.193.153.231/www/issues/issue2/content/
http://salimismail.com/?p=12
There are an outstanding number of internet users worldwide. We should all be cautious when searching for information in the internet and confirm that the source of our information is a reliable source.
Wikipedia Fact or Fiction? Part I
- Is Wikipedia a reliable and credible source of information?
- How should Wikipedia be used within an academic setting? (Should or should you not use Wikipedia for research in your classes?)
I believe Wikipedia to be a surprisingly acurate source of information. The main concern with wikipedia is that the information can be altered by anyone. Even though this is true, any alteration is reviewed and deleted if inaccurate.
Wikipedia should be considered a reliable source for research within the college community. There should be no reason not to utalize such a great source of information.
Wikipedia: Fact or Fiction? (part 2)
After reviewing the information provided I still agree with my original post. It seems the main complaints on Wikipedia are the time taken to remove false information, and that they do not always give the most information. The time taken to remove false information is recorded as 5 minutes or less in most cases. I still believe that wikipedia is a great source of information even if it is not as complete as its comercial competiters. From what I read I believe that Wikipedia is as reliable a source as any other.
- How should Wikipedia be used within an academic setting? (Should or should you not use Wikipedia for research in your classes?)
I believe Wikipedia to be a surprisingly acurate source of information. The main concern with wikipedia is that the information can be altered by anyone. Even though this is true, any alteration is reviewed and deleted if inaccurate.
Wikipedia should be considered a reliable source for research within the college community. There should be no reason not to utalize such a great source of information.
Wikipedia: Fact or Fiction? (part 2)
After reviewing the information provided I still agree with my original post. It seems the main complaints on Wikipedia are the time taken to remove false information, and that they do not always give the most information. The time taken to remove false information is recorded as 5 minutes or less in most cases. I still believe that wikipedia is a great source of information even if it is not as complete as its comercial competiters. From what I read I believe that Wikipedia is as reliable a source as any other.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Guitar Solo Search Exercise
I performed a search for guitar solos and then narrowed it by artist and genre. With my final search I used the artist but stipulated that I only want his blues music and not his music with his former band Thin Lizzy. I was amazed with the way the advanced search options narrowed my search. I have pasted the link for my search results while using Google.
First Search - Simple Search
Guitar Solo
16,200,000 results in .16 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&tbo=1&q=guitar+solo&aq=f&aqi=g10&oq=
Second Search - Use Additional Keywords
Guitar Solo Gary Moore
117,000 results in .33 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&tbo=1&q=guitar+solo+Gary+Moore&aq=f&aqi=&oq=
Third Search - Use Phrases
"Gary Moore Guitar solo"
174,000 results in .21 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&tbo=1&q=%22Gary+Moore+Guitar+Solo%22&aq=f&aqi=&oq=
Fourth Search - Add Blues Alive Subtract Thin Lizzy
Blues, Blues Alive,"Gary Moore Guitar Solo"-Thin-Lizzy
92 results in .38 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&tbo=1&as_q=Blues%2C+Blues+Alive%2C+&as_epq=Gary+Moore+guitar+solo&as_oq=&as_eq=Thin+Lizzy&num=10&lr=&as_filetype=&ft=i&as_sitesearch=&as_qdr=all&as_rights=&as_occt=any&cr=&as_nlo=&as_nhi=&safe=images
First Search - Simple Search
Guitar Solo
16,200,000 results in .16 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&tbo=1&q=guitar+solo&aq=f&aqi=g10&oq=
Second Search - Use Additional Keywords
Guitar Solo Gary Moore
117,000 results in .33 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&tbo=1&q=guitar+solo+Gary+Moore&aq=f&aqi=&oq=
Third Search - Use Phrases
"Gary Moore Guitar solo"
174,000 results in .21 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&tbo=1&q=%22Gary+Moore+Guitar+Solo%22&aq=f&aqi=&oq=
Fourth Search - Add Blues Alive Subtract Thin Lizzy
Blues, Blues Alive,"Gary Moore Guitar Solo"-Thin-Lizzy
92 results in .38 seconds
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&tbo=1&as_q=Blues%2C+Blues+Alive%2C+&as_epq=Gary+Moore+guitar+solo&as_oq=&as_eq=Thin+Lizzy&num=10&lr=&as_filetype=&ft=i&as_sitesearch=&as_qdr=all&as_rights=&as_occt=any&cr=&as_nlo=&as_nhi=&safe=images
Personal Computer Use
I use the computer for work, school, as well as personal use. At work I use Micrsoft Outlook to send and recieve emails. I also use SAP system at work to enter and retrieve information on various jobs. I take online classes so I have to log into class throughout the week and complete assignments for school. For personal use I use my computer to look up weather, news, scores for various sport, and much more. I do use the computer to keep in touch with people I know via sites like Myspace and Facebook. At home I have a high speed DSL internet connection that I have a wireless router on so that I can do my work anywhere in the house on my laptop. I would like to know how to keep my computer running at optimal performance.
Usually when I get on my computer I check my email then look at the news and weather followed by Myspace and Facebook. I do not believe I am capable of maintaining my own software and hardware. I did install an anti virus and have ran spybot and adaware on my computer before so I can take care of virus prevention but am incapable of fixing my computer once a virus is in it. I do know how to upgrade my hard drive and add more RAM to my computer, however I have not done this since 2002 on my last computer. I am not the only one that uses my computer, my wife will use my laptop when it is convenient for her. My wife is much better than me on the computer. She uses many of the microsoft office programs at work and I mainly use SAP when at work. My daughter is 5 and she only plays some educational games on the computer but she uses the pc and not my laptop. I use the computer quite a bit throughout the day but am learning that I was not aware of its full capability.
Usually when I get on my computer I check my email then look at the news and weather followed by Myspace and Facebook. I do not believe I am capable of maintaining my own software and hardware. I did install an anti virus and have ran spybot and adaware on my computer before so I can take care of virus prevention but am incapable of fixing my computer once a virus is in it. I do know how to upgrade my hard drive and add more RAM to my computer, however I have not done this since 2002 on my last computer. I am not the only one that uses my computer, my wife will use my laptop when it is convenient for her. My wife is much better than me on the computer. She uses many of the microsoft office programs at work and I mainly use SAP when at work. My daughter is 5 and she only plays some educational games on the computer but she uses the pc and not my laptop. I use the computer quite a bit throughout the day but am learning that I was not aware of its full capability.
Friday, February 5, 2010
VIRUS PROTECTION. Are you absolutely certain your personal computer at home has virus protection software running?
Yes
VIRUS PROTECTION. If so, what virus protection software do you use?
Avast
PASSWORD STRENGTH. Go to http://tinyurl.com/cf1401passwordcheck, enter your password to see how strong it is. How strong is your password?
Strong
FIREWALL. Does your computer have a firewall active?
Not Sure
FIREWALL. If your machine is running a firewall, which software is it?
Microsoft Firewall
Norton
McAfee Security
Other:
AD/MAL WARE. Are you absolutely certain your personal computer at home has ad/malware protection software running?
No
AD/MAL WARE. If yes to the first question, what software are you using? (check all that apply)
AdAware
Spybot
It's there, but I'm not certain which.
Other:
SPAM. Do you forward to friends and families strange photos, stories, pleas for help or security warnings?
Never
SPAM. How often do you check to see if teh messages you forward are true or valid?
I don't know how or Never.
Rarely
Doesn't apply; I don't forward them.
PHISHING. Do you know what phishing is?
I've heard the term but am not sure what it is
IMAGE. Do you monitor your online image?
No, not sure what you mean.
IMAGE. Do you keep your social network profiles private?
No, I've never worried about it.
IMAGE. Do you do regular internet vanity searches?
No, not sure what you mean.
BACKUPS. Do you have a backup of your data?
Yes
BACKUPS. If you do have a backup of your data, where do you keep it?
In or on the desk where the computer sits.
TRACKING. Are you familiar with software-based tracking solutions to help protect against computer theft?
No, haven't a clue.
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever knowingly downloaded copies of music which you had not previously purchased?
Yes
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever traded copies of digital music with someone you know?
Yes
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever downloaded copies of commercial software which you had not purchased?
No
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever used a friends or colleagues copy to install software on your computer?
Yes
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Yes
VIRUS PROTECTION. If so, what virus protection software do you use?
Avast
PASSWORD STRENGTH. Go to http://tinyurl.com/cf1401passwordcheck, enter your password to see how strong it is. How strong is your password?
Strong
FIREWALL. Does your computer have a firewall active?
Not Sure
FIREWALL. If your machine is running a firewall, which software is it?
Microsoft Firewall
Norton
McAfee Security
Other:
AD/MAL WARE. Are you absolutely certain your personal computer at home has ad/malware protection software running?
No
AD/MAL WARE. If yes to the first question, what software are you using? (check all that apply)
AdAware
Spybot
It's there, but I'm not certain which.
Other:
SPAM. Do you forward to friends and families strange photos, stories, pleas for help or security warnings?
Never
SPAM. How often do you check to see if teh messages you forward are true or valid?
I don't know how or Never.
Rarely
Doesn't apply; I don't forward them.
PHISHING. Do you know what phishing is?
I've heard the term but am not sure what it is
IMAGE. Do you monitor your online image?
No, not sure what you mean.
IMAGE. Do you keep your social network profiles private?
No, I've never worried about it.
IMAGE. Do you do regular internet vanity searches?
No, not sure what you mean.
BACKUPS. Do you have a backup of your data?
Yes
BACKUPS. If you do have a backup of your data, where do you keep it?
In or on the desk where the computer sits.
TRACKING. Are you familiar with software-based tracking solutions to help protect against computer theft?
No, haven't a clue.
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever knowingly downloaded copies of music which you had not previously purchased?
Yes
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever traded copies of digital music with someone you know?
Yes
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever downloaded copies of commercial software which you had not purchased?
No
COPYRIGHT. Have you ever used a friends or colleagues copy to install software on your computer?
Yes
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Thursday, January 28, 2010
"Computer Literacy, Revisited"
An individual that is computer literate will use their computer to help them in their everyday lives. To be computer literate also means to be able to take care of and maintain the functionality of your computer. Computer literacy is not just limited by being able to send and recieve emails. After reading the first chapter I learned that I was not as computer literate as I had at first thought. I definately do not know how to fix my pc if I have a problem and am still learning to use the internet to its fullest.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Howdy
Hello all my name is Jake and this is the first blog that I have ever created. I created it for a computer class in college so I'm a beginer and a first timer!
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