Category: Guides

The Microsoft Windows 8 Operating System provides an improved user experience, with compelling apps offered in the Windows Store. However, some people are still wondering if the OS has met the appropriate balance between traditional and modern computing.

SkyDrive and Windows Account

A useful feature of the Microsoft 8 operating system is the fact that once you log in with your Microsoft account, it is saved on the cloud and then synced with any device operating on Windows 8. You also have the option to install the OS without a Microsoft account or Internet connection, by simply creating an account that only exists that system.

The Modern UI

The tiles of Windows 8 appear on top of the traditional windowed desktop that most people are accustomed to. After logging on, the first screen that you will see is a Start screen that offers up a number of tiles which represent the shortcuts and applications available. You are able to create custom groups and arrange the tiles however you desire.

Dual Interfaces and Desktop Enhancements

As an underscore to the commitment to the newly offered UI and apps, Microsoft also made the actual desktop environment an app that has to be launched from the Modern UI Start screen. Desktop apps are unable to be ran in the actual Modern UI environment, or you can run the Windows 8 apps on the actual desktop.

Task Switching and Docking

When you use Windows 8 you will be able to dock an app to another by dragging the window onto either side of the screen. While the docked app will only utilize a smaller portion of the screen, it is not able to be resized. When you are on the Start screen, the docked app will completely disappear.

The Switcher

There is also a Switcher menu that provides a list of thumbnails of all the apps that you currently have open, but there are several caveats. The Switcher will not show any of the icons in the foreground and the docked application will not appear in the Switcher.

Performance

With the latest code base, the Windows 8 OS provides an increased stability and performance. When it comes to specifics, boot time is the area that offers the largest amount of improvement. In a side by side test, Windows 8 booted in a total of 25 seconds, while Windows 7 took 49 seconds.

From install, boot and use, the Windows 8 Operating System offers a more seamless process that is appealing for users looking for that little extra performance from Windows.

If you are planning to buy or build a computer, purchasing the processor is an extremely important consideration. Understanding the components and features that are available will help you to make an educated decision regarding the processor that you ultimately purchase.

Type of Processor

Choosing the right processor is an essential consideration for any person that is planning to build a computer. There are a total of three primary options to consider, including Intel, Cyrix and AMD. Each company has advantages and disadvantages, meaning that you may have to consider specific capabilities and features to determine which one meets your needs. One of the first considerations is if you have a compatible motherboard. For example, Intel motherboards mean you need to Buy Intel Processors.

Heat Sink

Heat sinks should be included with each processor. This will help to ensure the processor remains cool and is able to operate efficiently. If the computer processor has a failing, bad or missing heat sink, it can cause the device to produce errors, lock up or have other problems. When considering a processor, you should also take time to consider if the processor is actually compatible with the heat sink used.

Interface

There are a wide option of interfaces that a CPU can connect to. Each of the interface options is highlighted here:

Slot A

This was first presented by Intel when Pentium II was released. It was specifically designed to give users the ability to install the computer’s processor. Since there were added cost considerations, Intel reverted to the option of the Socket, which is referred to as FC-PGA socket. You will find the Slot in both Intel Pentium II models and earlier versions of Intel Pentium III.

Socket/Flip Chip/FC-PGA/Coppermine

The most popular interface found in modern processors is the socket. It is used in all of the Intel processors after the Pentium II as well as any processors that have the denotation of FC-PGA that stands for Field-Programmable Gate Array.

Slocket

The slocket is a type of slot card that is used for connecting the FPGA or socket processor. While it is not actually an interface, it offers options for any users that have slot adapters with a device that supports the speeds provided by a FPGA or socket processor.

When considering the interface for the CPU, you should ensure it matches what is on the motherboard, unless Slocket use is a possibility.

Speed

An extremely important consideration is the speed of the actual processor, which determines how fast the computer will operate. When looking at processor speed, it is recommended that you do not purchase an option that has been recently released, as it will drop significantly in two to three months after release.

The use of Industrial Tablets have been described as an indispensable piece of equipment for utilities, and there is good reason for this. No matter if you are responsible for gas, electric, water or phone, your job is mobile by nature, which means you need a tablet that can not only accommodate, but also stand up to your day to day needs and activities.

Value Across the Board

You can purchase a tablet with the latest and most innovative technology, and also be tough enough to meet the standards of the military, helping to improve every single aspect of your business. Not only will these devices provide a continuous source of communication between field and office workers, they also give workers access to reference materials when necessary.

When you find a genuine industrial tablet, it will not be hurt by water, extreme temperatures, mud, vibrations, or being dropped on hard surfaces. It will work seamlessly, around the clock, whenever it is needed.

While these tablets may be compact in size, they provide the functionality that is offered by any full-size computing device. Additionally, the tablet’s wireless capability makes it completely portable while keeping filed worker’s connected.

While utility companies can benefit from these devices, the fact is that any business that has a field service of technicians that repair, maintain and motor any vehicles, or equipment can benefit from this type of equipment.

Longer Lasting Equals Smart Investment

There is no doubt that tablets will not last forever, especially considering the evolving technology. However, studies have shown that up to 35 percent of commercial devices have to be replaced after only two years, and 80 percent of these devices after only three years. However, devices that are considered industrialized, only two percent have to be replaced after a period of two years.

Generally speaking, the expected longevity for a commercial device is around three years. For those industrial devices, it is five years for the freight, courier and mail applications and approximately four and a half years for distribution and warehouse center use.

In addition to lasting longer, these devices also cost much less to provide support for, in fact, up to 47 percent less each year. Due to these simple facts, commercial devices usually have much shorter warranties.

For companies and businesses looking to maximize their equipment investment, these industrial tablets make sense.