A laptop is a high-maintenance gadget. You will need to exert the extra effort to protect it from all sorts of abuses if you want your laptop to last longer. Sticking a laptop skin onto your computer’s lid is one of the many ways to make sure that it stays scratch-free for a longer time.

Laptop skins come in different types and designs. Aside from their common protective function, skins work to improve a computer’s aesthetic beauty. Instead of having an impersonal and dull-colored laptop lid, you can personalize your gadget by sticking an interesting print laptop skin on it. With this accessory, the possibilities are endless. You can select a skin in the design of your choice – a replica of a popular artwork, retro or animal prints or even your own photo. If you’re no-frills type of person, you can just opt for a plain skin in a color that you want.

Laptop skins are available in office supplies stores and computer shops. You can even buy one online or, better yet, make one yourself. When buying a print laptop skin make sure to go with a product that can easily be removed from the lid without leaving any nasty adhesive marks or even causing damage to the original color of your laptop. As a general rule, a skin that is made of high-quality vinyl is a good choice. The material should be effective in protecting your laptop from dust and abrasions. Remember that while you want your gadget to look unique, aesthetics is only a secondary priority. The main reason why you’re getting a laptop skin is because you want to sufficiently protect your precious gadget.

It goes without saying that before you pick out your print laptop skin make sure that it is made of high quality materials to make sure that it wouldn’t cause damage on your laptop.

Laptop display scratches are highly annoying. They interrupt in your work. A single scratch requires immediate laptop screen repair. Any neglect on your part can damage the screen display and cost heavy on your pocket. Hence, an intelligent user should mend the screen as soon as a scratch occurs. After all, who likes to work on a laptop which has damaged screen display.

Ideally, you should appoint an experienced and competent technician to conduct the laptop screen repair task. Don’t avail into cheap technicians who use second hand or pirated parts for laptop repair. Remember, cheap repairing techniques can deteriorate your laptop display. Hence, you’ll be left with the option of buying a new laptop which would have serious impact on your budget.

If you can’t avail into a technical expert, then you can use this technique to repair the screen yourself. This is known as petroleum jelly method. This technique works with small cuts. Take a cotton ball and dip it in some petroleum jelly. Now, apply it on the scratched area. Take a new cotton or damp cloth to rub the petroleum jelly across the screen. Rub till the scratch blends with the laptop display.

If this technique doesn’t work, then buy a laptop screen repair solution. This solution is rarely available hence you can also use a CD cleaner. You can also buy the screen repair kit for yourself. It has the necessary solution and instructions to repair the laptop screen. You can follow them step by step and repair the laptop yourself.

This technique works in most of the cases. You can also check Internet laptop repair websites. Several websites provide tips and tricks to repair the laptop display. These websites and tool kits are alternatives to solve the issue with minimum investment but the safest mode is to appoint a technical expert for the task of screen repair.

So, don’t neglect the scratches on your laptop screen. Get the laptop screen repair immediately.

A laptop is essential for students and working individuals. Because of its portability, users can write important papers, connect to the Internet via wireless modems, and can even watch movies anytime and anywhere. But without proper care, this machine can break down, and especially, there can be problems with the LCD monitor. Here are some tips that can help you in troubleshooting your laptop’s LCD monitor.

Is there something wrong with your screen? If this is so, then there is a possibility that the LCD (liquid crystal display) backlight of your laptop is broken. The LCD backlight is the source of light that gives you a clearer visual of your screen. Symptoms of LCD damage include:

- Dim laptop LCD

- Flickering screen

- Faint images on your LCD

- No video image

- Faded laptop LCD

A laptop backlight is composed of four parts and these are:

- Laptop inverter

- LCD lamp

- Inverter cable

- Toggle switch

Damage to any of these parts may result to the symptoms stated above. Unfortunately, there is no other way to be sure if one of these parts are damaged without using a tester. Some of the main causes of damage to these parts include age and excessive use of your laptop. Parts such as the LCD lamp usually last for two years minimum.

Aside from the blacklight, it is possible that your LCD screen itself is damaged. This problem can be very serious because the LCD is the most fragile and expensive part of your laptop. Symptoms of LCD damage include:

- Decolorization of your screen

- Appearance of stripes or lines on your screen

LCD damage is usually caused by hard impacts to your laptop. Remember, the LCD is a very sensitive and fragile piece of equipment. Even the slightest amount of pressure on your LCD can cause it to break.

The only way to repair the backlight and the LCD monitor is to replace them. Replacing the LCD monitor alone can cost you around $250 and that is apart from the $120 service fee that most laptop repair companies charge.

Laptop major parts are: processor, memory, hard drive, video card and display screen. Now let’s see what kind of which do you need for your laptop.

Part 1 — Processor
Processor performance is determined by following parameters: number of cores, core speed, front side bus speed and amount of cache.

Number of cores. Processor with multiple cores does a way better job in multitasking than a single core one. Usual modern computer runs many tasks same time (browser, email client, antivirus, etc…), so dual core processor gives a very noticeable performance boost comparing to single core. From the other point processor with 4 cores and more is usually overkill, because current state of software does not allow using four cores to the full power. Usually dual core processor is the best in terms of performance for money. Core speed. The more GHz processor has the faster it is. For simple tasks like browsing, checking email, watching videos, listening to music and creating documents you don’t need a powerful processor. 1.7 GHz dual core is enough. If you are going to play games, encode video/music, use photo or video editors, then you need a faster processor. Depending on tasks 2.0 GHz dual core or better. Front side bus speed. You probably have seen something like 667 MHz FSB in laptop processor specifications. Now you will know what does this mean. The more speed FSB has the faster data between processor and memory could be transferred. Faster FSB does not have such a great impact on processor performance like core speed does, but with same core speed 800 Mhz FSB processor maybe 5-10% faster than 667 MHz FSB processor. Depends on tasks a lot too. Amount of cache. That’s the amount of internal memory processor has. Like FSB speed it also does not affect processor performance that much, but still, the more the better. Typical values for modern processors are 512KB–3MB.

Choosing which laptop computer to buy can be confusing, especially with the myriad of options currently available on the market today. It seems that almost every day, newer and faster models are being introduced and you have the task of deciding which one of these hundreds of laptop computers to purchase.

While we all like to have the newest model with the latest features, the fact is, most of us will never use a computer to it’s fullest capabilities. Still, each and every time you visit the big box electronics retailers, they will try to convince you that you need the top of the line machine.

The Truth Is, You Don’t Need The Latest Laptop Computer

If you can find a laptop computer that does what you need it to do, then that’s all that matters. Whether it has the fastest video card or the biggest hard drive is of little consequence to most computer users. As long as you can connect to the internet, use email, social networking programs, word processing and store photos and music, beyond that the average user just doesn’t need anymore. Most entry-level computers available for a low price of less than $500 will suit most users and those that need a little more power, likely know enough about computers to know what they need. Graphic designers, website designers, computer programmers or those involved with music and video editing will need to have a more substantial computer, but this does not affect most users.

Here’s a perfect configuration for most average home users.

Intel Dual Core processor or AMD Athlon Processors
80GB Hard drive or larger
2GB of Ram or more
Integrated video card
Wireless internet card

Beyond the statistics above, a regular home user just does not need much more than this. Of course we all like to say that we have the latest and best electronics, in tough economic times saving money on a new computer is important.

Often buying the low end computer that a major manufacturer like HP, Acer or Dell offers will be fine, but there is also the option of buying a factory refurbished laptop computer. These are computers that have been returned either from a lease, or returned from a store. They get sent back to a manufacturer and then cleaned, tested and parts are replaced to return the computer back to new condition. This is a great way to save money and get a good laptop at the same time.

Here’s what you need to know (and do) to connect your laptop to a wireless network and get Internet access.

First off, let’s talk common sense. Before you access any wireless network, especially one in a public place, you must have anti-virus software installed and up-to-date on your laptop. Your laptop should also be current with all Windows Operating System Updates.

That said, the next thing you need is to have a laptop with wireless networking capabilities. If you’re not sure whether yours does, do the following to check it out: Click on Start | Connect To | Show all connections, or Click on Start | Settings | (Control Panel) | Network Connections Under “LAN or High-Speed Internet” you should see a wireless connection icon. (If not, see below about installing a wireless network card). Assuming you have wireless capabilities, continue on doing the following: Right-click on the wireless connection icon. In the pop-up menu, select “View Available Wireless Networks.” In the “Wireless Networking Connection” window, click on the appropriate wireless network. Check the box that says “Allow me to connect to the selected wireless network.” An icon in the lower right hand corner of your desktop should eventually appear stating that you are connected. Open your browser and visit any website you want. If authentication is required on the wireless network, you will be redirected automatically to a login page where you’ll have to log in using an approved Network User Name/ID and the correct password.

That’s all it takes.

Note: If your laptop does not already have built-in wireless networking, you will need to purchase and install, or have installed, a Wireless Networking Card. There are many brands of wireless networking cards. Just make sure you buy a card that is 802.11b or 802.11g compatible. Linksys cards are an excellent choice and I recommend them highly. If you choose another brand, be certain that the card is WiFi Certified. (For a list of 802.11b and 802.11g certified cards, please visit the WiFi Alliance website.)

Here are 10 tips to prevent your laptop from theft as well as an explanation of laptop security devices that ensure your laptop and data are protected. The main attraction of laptops is their portability and mobility. It is great to be able to take your computer with you and use it anywhere. But with these benefits comes a risk of theft. Obviously theft is more likely to happen when an object can be picked up and carried away. Laptop security devices are important to prevent your laptop from being stolen as well as to prevent the data from your laptop being retrieved and used in the event that your laptop is a victim of theft.

10 TIPS TO PREVENT LAPTOP THEFT

1. NEVER leave your laptop or any valuables in plain sight in your car. Recently there has been an increase in car burglaries stemming from valuables being left in plain sight. Lock them in the trunk.

2. Don’t use computer bags, while these maybe fashionable and comfortable they make it obvious that you are carrying a laptop. Try using a padded briefcase or suitcase instead.

3. Make sure your laptop is always with you. Do not check laptops in with your luggage while traveling. Never leave your laptop in your car in plain sight or any valuable objects for that matter. There has been a recent increase of car burglaries stemming from people leaving valuables in plain sight. Lock all valuables in the trunk.

4. Another great laptop security measure is to never leave access numbers or passwords in your carrying case. Keeping your password with your laptop is like keeping the keys in the car. Without your password or important access numbers it will be more difficult for a thief to access your personal and corporate information.

5. Keep your eye on your laptop. When you go through airport security don’t lose sight of your bag while it’s going through the scan or hold your bag until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. Many bags look alike and yours can easily be lost in the shuffle.

6. Avoid setting your laptop on the floor or the seat next to you. If you must set ti down make sure you are always aware of it by setting down against your leg or arm. Putting your laptop on the floor is an easy way to forget or lose track of it.

7. Use a screen guard when in public. This prevents people from looking over your shoulder and seeing sensitive information. This is especially helpful when you’re traveling or need to work in a crowded area.

8. Do not leave your laptop unsecured in your hotel room. Things sometimes tend to get lost in hotel rooms and are never secure. If you must leave your laptop in the room then use a security cable to attach it to a stable object, such as the desk or bedpost. Another good thing to do is leave the “do not disturb” sign on the door.

9. Labeling everything possible related to your laptop is an effective security measure. Label everything with the name of the individual that owns it, and ensure that these labels are conspicuous. The potential theft value of laptops is reduced greatly when additional work is required to remove the identifying marks. Conspicuous identity labels also significantly increase the risk of a potential thief being caught in the act of theft.

10. Buy a laptop security device. The next section details some options for laptop security devices.

LAPTOP SECURITY DEVICE:

Laptop Cable:

One of the most inexpensive and effective laptop security devices is a laptop cable. Very much like a bicycle lock, this cable attaches to your laptop and allows you to lock it to a stationary object. The cable makes it much more difficult for someone to steal your laptop.

Laptop Tracing Programs:

These programs will report the location of a stolen laptop. They work when the laptop connects to the Internet, and can report the laptop’s exact physical location.

Motion Sensors and Alarms:

Unexpected loud noises make people wake up and take notice, something that aspiring thieves find very discouraging. Laptop security devices exist which use alarms as a form of protection.

While the signal mechanism of an alarm system is usually the same, the triggers are different. The idea is that if the user moves out of range of the device, or the laptop is moved out of range of the user, the alarm will sound. Thus, if someone tries to steal or remove the laptop, the alarm will sound, drawing attention to the theft. Another option is to is to buy an alarm that relies on nothing more than movement of the object that it is attached to. If the object that the sensor is attached to is moved, an alarm will sound. Entering the 3-digit security code will reset or disable the alarm once the device has been recovered.

LAPTOP SECURITY DEVICES THAT PREVENT DATA ACCESS:

Security measures available in order to prevent access to data on your laptop in the event that it is taken.

Set a Login Password:

Set a login name/password that way in order to successfully login in to a laptop the user must provide that information. If the login entered is incorrect, the operating system will refuse to allow entry.

Set a BIOS password: Most laptops offer protection by allowing the owner to set a boot password. Typically most will prompt the user three times to enter a password, then refuse to boot if there are three failures.

Encryption:

One of the best laptop security devices are file encryption programs, which, encrypt files on your laptop. A private unlock key is provided to the owner, and as long as your private key is kept safe, no one but you and your intended recipients will be able to view your data.

Biometric Fingerprint Readers: Another great laptop security device is the Biometric Reader. This type of laptop security device would provide authentication at the hardware level which would require authentication before the machine would even boot up. The idea behind biometrics is to use the uniqueness of certain features of a user, such as retinal pattern, fingerprints, and even typing characteristics, to accurately identify and authorize persons.

Currently, laptops and notebook computers are being used to a great extent in educational institutes. With a laptop or notebook computer, students can connect to the network in the college and work on personal computers. Many manufacturers provide student computer discount offers. Though some of these offers are available only through official channels from the school, while others are available from the retailer on producing proof of enrolment in an educational institution. Some of the manufacturers that have student discount programs include Dell, Hewlett Packard, and Apple laptops.

It is important to check the institutions for restrictions, as all institutions are not accepted into these student discount programs, In most of the cases, only institutions of higher education, or universities, offer these student discounts.

Dell’s student discount program is aimed only at institutions of higher education. On providing proof that they belong to one of the eligible institutions, a Dell laptop may be purchased.

College students can check hp.com to view all the available HP student discounts that are available for higher education. HP also offers similar discounts to both students and faculty.

Meanwhile, Apple computers has a specific store for education, which offers desktop and notebook computers at special prices for education. Apple computers offers discounts for both college/university students, as well as for students in K-12 schools.

A student discount can be used if the customer is a student, teacher, a school administrator, or a faculty member. The discount can also be used if purchasing for an accredited school, college, or a hospital directly affiliated with an educational institution.

If your laptop runs too hot to use on your lap, it doesn’t mean that there is anything wrong with the machine. The manufacturers call these machines notebook PCs for good reason. The fact is that they all run far too hot to be used on a lap in comfort for more than a few minutes. The solution is to move the machine on to a laptop tray or on to a desktop.

You can recognize true overheating by looking for the following symptoms:

1. The machine’s cooling fans will work continuously and noisily at maximum speed.

2. The laptop will suddenly shut down without warning, perhaps after only a few minutes of operation.

3. The laptop will shut down shortly after you start to use any software that makes the processor work hard (3D Games, movie players, video editing software, etc.).

If you experience any of these symptoms then it is reasonable to assume that your laptop has got an overheating problem, and the next thing is to try to identify the cause

Of course, your laptop may have a fault or, in some rare cases, a design problem that means that you will need to speak to your dealer. But the most common explanation by far is either one or both of these:

1. You are using your laptop in a way that is preventing the cooling system from working properly.

2. Your laptop’s cooling system is clogged with dirt and dust.

The good news in both cases is that it is really easy to fix. There is no need to return your machine to the manufacturer and no need for big repair bills. Here are two things to try before you do anything else.

Solution 1: Let Your Laptop Breathe

Take a careful look at your laptop and see if you can identify two things:

1. The cooling fan exhaust port. This is usually on the side of the machine and easy to find when it is running because it blows hot air out over your hand.

2. The air intake grills. These are usually just a set of slots in the casing that will let air into the machine. They are not so obvious and are sometime located on the side, but most likely these days they will be on the bottom.

The components inside your laptop generate a lot of heat as they work. Your laptop’s cooling system removes this heat by sucking cool air through the input grills and passing it around all the hot components inside. The resulting warm air is then blown out of the exhaust port. The cooling system does this continuously all the time your machine operates and, as long as nothing happens to interrupt the flow of air, nothing more is needed to keep the machine cool.

The trouble is that, shortly after they discover that a laptop runs too hot to use on directly on their lap, many people simply move the machine to a cushion, to the couch, or to the carpet. As soon as they do that, guess what? They start to block up the cooling system air intakes and a little while after that their machine starts to overheat.

Of course, as soon as you realize what is going on, the solution is obvious. Simply move the machine to a flat, hard surface that will allow the cooling air to circulate. Let your laptop breathe!

Solution 2: Keep it Clean

You probably remember from science lessons that one of the things about moving hot dry air is that it quickly builds up a static charge in objects around it. When this happens inside your laptop the inside surfaces start to behave like dust magnets. Any particles of dust or dirt that pass through will most likely stick as if they had been glued.

As they do this, they begin to build-up an insulating dust layer which is so effective at preventing heat from escaping that it can cause serious overheating problems quite quickly.

The solution to this problem is to clean the cooling system out regularly. This is an easy procedure and it doesn’t need you to dismantle your machine or to do anything that will invalidate your warranty.

You need two things:

1. An aerosol air duster (available from all good PC Stores).

2. A vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool.

The procedure is quite simple:

1. Make sure that the laptop is switched off and disconnected from any power source before you begin.

2. Use the air duster to dislodge the dust by blowing through the intake grills and exhaust ports.

3. At the same time, suck the loose dust up with the vacuum cleaner.

Repeat this process every few months to keep your laptop’s cooling system in good working order and it will work properly without the need of a powered cooling tray or any other special gadget.

1. DeLorme Earthmate GPS LT-40 & Street Atlas USA 2009
The name of this product is certainly a mouthful, but DeLorme is a company well known for its paper maps. It has introduced a laptop-compatible GPS receiver unit and a Street Atlas USA 2009 mapping software, at a price of $60.95.

The Earthmate GPS LT-40 plugs directly to your laptop via USB and has a high-sensitivity WAAS-enabled GPS receiver. You will also like the improved interface of the Street Atlas USA 2009 software. You can get navigation cues, as well as a wide, 3D perspective of your route.

2. Garmin Mobile 10 Laptop GPS
Turning your laptop into a GPS device is also possible with the Garmin Mobile 10 GPS receiver. This GPS receiver connects to your laptop via wireless Bluetooth technology. When you buy the package, you also get the Garmin Mobile XT and nRoute navigation software. The software is particularly well thought out, with features like address lookup, voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, saved routes and a points of interest database.

3. Microsoft Streets & Trips 2008 GPS
Well, betcha didn’t know Microsoft made GPS receiver units. Well, in fact, Microsoft does produce such stuff to turn laptops into GPS devices. The Microsoft Streets & Trips 2008 GPS unit is a high-sensitivity model, and plugs into your laptop’s USB port. The package software allows you to use novel features like automatic re-routing, a perspective map, day-night backlight modes, as well as voice-prompted directions.

Conclusion
I hope the above article has shown you some interesting GPS units that can be used with your laptop. Turn your laptop into a GPS device by using one of the units above. You won’t regret your purchase decision.