Update Amibios

The AMI BIOS is a particular kind of motherboard used in personal computers. The motherboard essentially runs the computer by connecting all drives, processors and RAM together. Like all other hardware, a AMI BIOS needs to be updated once in a while. Short of replacing it with a new motherboard, occasional download updates are made available so the AMI BIOS can run the most up-to-date hardware and drives.

Instructions

1. Determine the AMI BIOS motherboard type. Power down the computer and remove all the cords from the backside. Use the Philips screwdriver to remove the screws that connect the case intake to the actual computer. Slide the case off. On the backside of the AMI BIOS the motherboard make and model will be written. Write this down because you will need it for the particular update you will use.

2. Resemble the computer and power it back on. Click the "AMI BIOS Updates" link provided in Resources. You will be taken to a large list of available updates for different AMI BIOS motherboards.

3. Select the appropriate update by clicking the blue "More" button. This will bring up a new page. The site will offer trial software. Stick clear of these programs and click the blue ".ZIP" update next to the "File" description. A new, almost all-white page will appear. Scroll down to the bottom of the page where you must type in the provided code to proceed. The driver will download momentarily.

4. Open the downloaded file once the process has completed. You may need a .ZIP extracting software to use the update. If you do not have one currently installed on the computer you can download a free trial of WinZip by following the second link in Resources.

5. Extract the file (if necessary) and open the driver update for the AMI BIOS motherboard. This will launch a kind of installation wizard. Follow the prompts to complete the driver updates. Once this has completed you may need to restart the computer to complete the update.

Tags: BIOS motherboard, completed need, This will

Radeon 5850 Specs

The HD5850 is a dedicated graphics card produced by ATI Radeon and launched in 2009. Since 2010 the brand has been renamed as AMD Radeon. The HD5850 was designed for use in high-end PCs and is part of the HD series, which was produced to provide high-definition graphics capability for videos and gaming.

Speed and Memory

The core processor speed for the Radeon HD5850 is 725 megahertz and it has a memory clock speed of 1 GHz. It uses 1GB of GDDR5 RAM and the memory bandwidth, which is how fast the card accesses its RAM, is 128GB per second.

ATI Powerplay

The HD5850 uses ATI's PowerPlay technology. This is a power-management tool that can conserve power when there's little demand on the graphics processor. This technology will still allow full, maximum-performance functionality of the graphics card when performing more demanding tasks such as watching videos or playing games. The PowerPlay technology is also designed to work with multi-GPU systems -- systems with more than one graphics processing unit -- and is available for Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.

Microsoft DirectX

The HD5850 supports DirectX version 11. DirectX is a suite of programs designed by Microsoft to enhance multimedia, gaming and video with the Microsoft operating systems. DirectX adjusts how the graphics card functions to suit the other hardware capabilities of your PC.

Avivo HD Capabilty

ATI's Avivo HD technology provides an enhanced environment for connecting your computer to an external device like your TV or monitor using an HDMI cable. This technology enables smooth playback for HD quality video with sharp images and vibrant colors.

OpenGL Support

OpenGL is a system integrated into Windows operating systems. OpenGL provides optimized system drivers to improve resource management so that the best balance is achieved between the graphics processing and other system processes. OpenGL can issue commands to the operating system to achieve this. The ATI Radeon HD5850 is able to communicate using these commands while performing 2-D and 3-D graphics processing tasks.

Tags: graphics card, graphics processing, Radeon HD5850, operating systems, PowerPlay technology

Minimum Requirements For A Gaming Computer

Purchasing or building a computer capable of effectively being used as a gaming machine can be a confusing prospect. Unlike game consoles, computers have a myriad of different components that can be upgraded or expanded. There are some essential components that all gaming computers should include.

Prime Consideration

The most important part of a gaming PC is the graphics card. This will have the greatest effect on what games you're able to play as well as the amount of detail that each game will display. Look for systems with a graphics card manufactured under the NVIDIA GeForce series or the ATI Radeon series. These two series of cards have the highest rate of compatibility with gaming software.

Hardware

After the graphics card, the processor is the next most important component of a gaming computer. The processor functions as the taskmaster of the system and delivers instructions to all the other parts. The faster the processor, the more tasks it can handle at a given time. Often with a slower processor, games crash or stall when other programs are running in the background such as email or web browsers. Using at least a 2.0 GHz processor will keep your system running smoothly during game play.

Memory

Any current generation gaming software requires at least 1 gigabyte of RAM (Random Access Memory) to run properly. The higher the RAM, the smoother your games will function. While the minimum requirement is 1 gigabyte, gamers will want to begin with 2 gigs to be ready for upcoming games.

Space

Games take up a great deal of space on a hard drive. This is why a gaming PC should include at least a 150 GB hard drive. When deciding on a hard drive, take into account the amount of games the computer will be used for. A gamer looking for a computer to run only World of Warcraft will require less space on a hard drive than someone looking to try new games every week.

Insight

The most important factor to take into account when purchasing or building a gaming computer is how it will be used. Gamers looking to partake in massive battles in the latest first-person shooter will want a higher-end computer than someone looking to explore the world of The Sims. A tip when purchasing a gaming computer is to print out a list of system requirements for the game you're yearning to play. Make sure the computer meets or exceeds these requirements, and you'll have no trouble with your new computer.

Tags: hard drive, graphics card, most important, components that, computer will

Upgrade A Core Duo To A Core 2 Duo

Upgrading your computer's processor is a good way to increase your system's speed and performance. The Intel Core 2 Duo is a faster processor than the Intel Core Duo, and has increased overall functionality. You may wish to upgrade your processor as part of a full system upgrade or for increased multi-core functions.

Instructions

1. Turn off your computer and unplug any peripheral devices.

2. Open your case and note the location of your fan and heat sink on your motherboard. Your CPU fan is the large fan near the center.

3. Remove your CPU fan and heat sink by removing any screws or fasteners. Most fans have four plastic brackets on the corners that need to be removed. If your fan uses screws remove them with a screwdriver.

4. Remove your Core Duo processor by pulling the level that locks it into place.

5. Place your new Core 2 Duo processor into the processor cradle. Secure it by pressing down the lever.

6. Apply thermal paste if necessary. Re-attach your heat sink and fan to complete installation.

Tags: heat sink, your heat, your heat sink, Core processor, Intel Core

Reset An Emachine Bios

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) on your eMachines computer is the firmware used by the motherboard to run the POST (Power-On Self-Test) when the system starts up. You can configure the BIOS to recognize hardware, enable and disable system components and monitor the system. If, in the course of testing BIOS configurations, you find that you have rendered your computer inoperable, you will need to reset the BIOS back to the original factory settings. Fortunately, there is a keyboard command built into the eMachines BIOS interface that accomplishes exactly this.

Instructions

1. Restart the computer if it is on or press the "Power" button to turn on the computer.

2. Press the "Tab" or "Del" key to enter the eMachine system BIOS. Older eMachines systems may require that you press the "F1" or "F2" key instead. If none of the listed keys work, watch the screen while the computer boots up for a message indicating the correct key to press to enter the "System Settings" or "BIOS Settings."

3. Press the "F9" key to load the default BIOS settings, which will reset all of the BIOS settings back to the original "factory" configuration.

4. Press the "F10" key to save the BIOS settings and exit the BIOS interface. The eMachines computer will reboot and start up using the default BIOS settings.

Tags: BIOS settings, back original, back original factory, BIOS interface, default BIOS, default BIOS settings

Turn On Onboard Sound Cards

Enable onboard sound through Device Manager.

Onboard sound and video cards are devices built into the motherboard that allow you to use these features without installing peripheral devices on a computer. Sometimes peripheral devices are installed that override the built-in devices on a motherboard. Should an installed sound card malfunction, you can revert to the onboard sound by disabling (turning off) the corrupt device.

Device Manager is a utility for the Windows operating system that allows you to monitor performance of hardware in your computer. Device Manager allows you to choose among devices, enabling or disabling the ones you wish to use. You can disable a corrupt sound card and revert to onboard sound until you install a new card.

Instructions

1. Click on "Start." Right-click on "My Computer."

2. Scroll down and click on the "Properties" option to open the System Properties Window.

3. Click on the "Device Manager" tab to open the utility.

4. Click on the "+" sign next to "Sound, video and game controllers" to expand the menu.

5. Right-click on the device you want to use and click on "Enable." Disable the other device by using the right-click method.

Tags: Device Manager, onboard sound, peripheral devices, revert onboard, revert onboard sound

Is It Ok To Use An Extension Cord With A Computer

If you have to use an extension cord with your computer, make sure it's the right kind.

The main reason for owning a laptop is portability, but batteries only get you so far. An extension cord solves this problem without relying on nearby outlets. Even if you own a desktop, you might need to put it where there isn't an outlet. You can do this safely by getting the right cord and using it properly.

Electrical Specs

When you're shopping for an extension cord, there are two electrical ratings you need to know. The first is how much wattage it will handle, and the second is how much current it can carry. Computers and their accessories use a lot of power, and you need a heavy-duty cord for these applications. Make sure your cord is rated for at least 1,825 watts and it can handle 125 volts of current. A 15-amp cord is designed for these loads.

Design Specs

Heavy-duty cords come in 12- and 14-gauge sizes, but most 12-gauge cords are made for 220-volt appliances like clothes dryers and ovens. The lower the gauge, the more current a cord can carry, so lightweight cords are 18, medium-weight cords are 16 and heavy-duty cords start at 14. 14-gauge is the right size for your computer, but you should also make sure that its plug is a three-prong, grounded design. If you intend to use the computer outside, its cord must also be well-insulated to protect it from the elements.

Placement

Getting the right cord is only half the battle; you also have to use it properly. Never run extension cords under rugs, carpet or furniture, since concealing them increases the risk of a fire. You should also run your cords along the wall to keep them out of foot traffic. If a cord's placement will increase wear and tear or the risk of an accident, like stretching it across a doorway or in front of a desk, you should find a safer option.

Proper Usage

You can avoid electrical problems by learning good safety habits. Always push the plug of an extension cord all the way into the wall and never pull it out by the cord. When you use power strips, only use one with each extension cord. Daisy-chaining them can overload a cord or the outlet it's plugged into, and that could blow a circuit breaker or start a fire. It's also a good idea to unplug extension cords every night, since they aren't intended to be a permanent replacement for wall wiring.

Tags: extension cord, extension cords, make sure, right cord, should also

Problems With Infonec Computers

Infonec Computers are a Canadian-based computer retailer.

Infonec Computers are a Canadian-based computer retailer specializing in computer parts and assemblies ranging from computer cases to motherboards and other peripheral devices. The company opened its doors in 1995 and has three locations throughout Ontario, Canada.

Features

Infonec has a website featuring computer systems from industry-leading manufacturers through reseller agreements. Customers can establish an online account with Infonec and receive email news on various items and a monthly sales newsletter.

Problems

Users have complained concerning Infonec's lack of customer service when returning systems and components. Typically, customers with faulty products must fill out an return merchandise authorization (RMA) request. In various situations, the wait time to process an RMA is between 14 to 21 days. Many users also report that Infonec does not follow-up with its customers.

Resolution

If you placed an online order, follow up the order with a phone call. If a system or component is damaged in shipment or won't work at all, email, call and write a letter to customer service about the problem.

Tags: Infonec Computers, Canadian-based computer, Canadian-based computer retailer, computer retailer, Computers Canadian-based

Pc133 Gfxcel Specifications

The PC133 GFXcelM758lmr fits into the Micro Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) motherboard form factor category. Due to their cramped interiors, most Slim Line and smaller desktop computer cases use Micro ATX motherboards because of their size. This allows personal computer builders more room to install the rest of the computer's components.

Technical Overview

This particular series of motherboards offers support for the Flip-Chip Pin Grid Array (F-C PGA) Intel Pentium III series of processors, between the speeds of 500 and 833 megahertz. Socket size for the GFXcelM758lmr is Socket 370 to meet the standards of Micro ATX form factor.

Intel Celeron processors between the speeds of 266-533 megahertz also fit inside the GFXcelM758lmr. The supported frequencies for either the Pentium III or Celeron series is 66/100/133 megahertz.

Memory and Video Details

For memory, the GFXcelM758lmr has two Dual-Inline Memory Module (DIMM) slots that support PC133 Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM) up to a maximum of 1 gigabyte.

This motherboard features an on-board video chipset. The 128-bit 3-Dimensional (3D) Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) is located on the northbridge of the motherboard, with a total of 64 megabytes of video memory and a listed maximum resolution of 1920 by 1200.

Sound and Networking Overview

On-board 3D Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) 3D-Pro audio is included on the GFXcelM758lmr. It features certification for PC98 specifications and supports Head-Related Transfer Functions (HRTF) positional audio. Other formats supported include the Microsoft Direct 3D Audio codec and the Aureal 3-Dimensinaol (A3D) sound codec.

Ethernet networking supports 10/100 Megabits per Second (MBPS) and supports The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.3 and 802.3u standards. 56k modem support comes included, with the option of V.90 Modem/Fax standard.

Tags: between speeds, form factor, processors between, processors between speeds

What Does Overclocking Your Cpu Mean

Overclocking a processor can lead to significant performance gains.

The processor in your computer may be capable of running at higher than its current speed. When a company manufactures a line of processors with different speed ratings, it often gives some processors speed ratings lower than what they are capable of. This way, the company is able to produce enough processors to satisfy demand for the lower-end processors in the line. Configuring your computer's processor to run at higher than its rated speed is called overclocking, and many computer enthusiasts use this technique to increase the performance of their computers.

Background

A processor's clock rate is determined by the front-size bus speed -- the rate of communication between the processor and memory controller -- of the motherboard and the processor's multiplier, which is the processor's internal timing between itself and the front-side bus. For example, a processor with a rated speed of 1 GHz might have a multiplier of 7.5 and run on a motherboard with a bus speed of 133 MHz. Most processors have "locked" multipliers, meaning that the end user cannot modify them. However, many motherboards for desktop computers give the end user the ability to change the FSB speed. Changing the FSB speed of the motherboard in this example from 133 MHz to 140 MHz would give the processor a new clock rate of 1.05 GHz; a five-percent speed increase. Overclocking is the act of raising a motherboard's FSB speed to increase the speed of the processor.

Benefits

Overclocking increases the speed of a processor, thereby improving the performance of the computer in tasks that are limited by the processor's speed. After overclocking a processor, you may not see great performance gains while performing non-intensive tasks such as browsing the Web. However, processor-intensive tasks such as games and audio or video rendering generally show improvement. Some people use overclocking as a means of saving money when building a computer. If you purchase a processor with the intention of overclocking it, you may be able to buy a lower-cost processor than you otherwise would have, without sacrificing performance.

Drawbacks

A processor's heat increases when it runs at a higher clock speed, and if the heat that a processor generates is too high, the processor may fail sooner than it otherwise would have. It is even possible to make a processor fail immediately by attempting to overclock it to a speed that is too high. However, the risk of an immediate processor failure is low, and you can mitigate the risk of long-term damage by cooling the processor adequately. An additional drawback is that some processors have low overclocking potential; you might buy a processor with the intention of running it at a high speed, only to find that you are unable to achieve the clock speed you were hoping for. Even if other people have reported success with a particular processor model, this does not guarantee that a processor you purchase will have the same potential. The final potential drawback of overclocking is noise; you can achieve the highest clock rate possible for your processor by cooling it as much as possible, which may require loud cooling fans.

Overclocking Tips

When overclocking your processor, do not immediately attempt to achieve the highest speed possible; if the processor is unable to run at that speed, the computer may not start. Instead, increase the FSB speed of your motherboard in small increments, testing thoroughly after each speed increase. Lower the FSB speed if your computer shows any sign of instability. If you are disappointed with your overclocking results, consider purchasing a more efficient heat sink and fan for your processor.

Tags: clock rate, processor with, speed increase, your computer, your processor, achieve highest

Unlock Windows Ce Gps

Unlock Windows CE GPS

Windows CE is an operating system developed by Microsoft. It is designed for mobile devices such as PocketPCs, smartphones, hand-held personal digital assistants and palm-size PCs. Certain models come with a built-in GPS unit. If you find the GPS unit locked, you may unlock it from the Command Prompt, or CMD, tool. The CMD tool in Windows CE works very similar to that of the one used in the Windows PC version.

Instructions

1. Turn on your Windows CE-enabled device.

2. Tap the "Taskbar" at the bottom and open the on-screen keyboard.

3. Type "run23" without the quotes and hit "Enter" on the on-screen keyboard. This will launch the Command Prompt tool.

4. Type the following command at the prompt without the quotes "geo.release(timedelay)" and tap "Enter." This will unlock the GPS system on your Windows CE-enabled device. Replace "timedelay" with the number of seconds (typically 5 to 10 seconds) that you wish to give other applications on your device to release the GPS system.

Tags: your Windows CE-enabled, CE-enabled device, Command Prompt tool, on-screen keyboard, Prompt tool, This will, Unlock Windows

No Power For An Asus P5wd2e Motherboard

The P5WD2-E motherboard from ASUS was released in 2005. If there are problems with the motherboard powering up, there are three different causes. Additional troubleshooting resources can be found on the ASUS website.

Connections/Source

Make sure that the power cable is firmly connected into the power supply unit (PSU) and the power supply. Check that the power supply is functioning properly by testing another device. Try an alternative power cable if possible to see if this is the root cause.

Power Supply Unit

If the power and power cable are working, but the PSU does not switch on (check for fan activity), the unit is faulty. Check that the on-board power switch is set to On (if there is one) and if possible replace the PSU with another model.

Motherboard Problem

If the PSU springs into life, but the motherboard does not switch on (check the on-board LED light), there is a problem with the motherboard or the connections between it and the PSU. Consult the documentation supplied with the board and the PSU to see where the connecting cables should go and ensure they are firmly seated. If there is still no power, this suggests a faulty motherboard.

Tags: power cable, power supply, Check that, does switch, does switch check, switch check

Nforce 4 Vs Nforce 5

The Nforce 4 and the Nforce 5 -- officially known as the nForce4 and the nForce 500 series, respectively -- are motherboard chipsets from semiconductor and graphics processing unit manufacturer Nvidia. These components are designed for data transfer with processors on desktop personal computers, among other functions. The nForce4 made its debut in 2004, while the more advanced nForce 500 appeared in 2006.

Processor

The nForce 4 and the nForce 500 series motherboard chipsets are designed to work with certain processors from semiconductor companies Intel Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices. Compatible Intel chips come from the Core 2 family of the company's premier central processing unit brand; the Pentium 4, the fourth iteration of the Pentium family, which Core relegated to mid-range status; and the Celeron D, which were the high-performance but low-energy efficient variant of Intel's low-budget brand. The compatible AMD processors consist of the single- and dual-core variants of the then-premier Athlon brand and the budget-oriented Sempron.

FSB Speed

Each Nvidia nForce chipset facilitates data transfer between the processor and the motherboard via the front-side bus interface. The rate of such a transfer is referred to as the front-side bus speed. The Intel technology-based nForce 4 chipsets have an FSB speed of 1,066MHz. This surpasses the AMD technology-based nForce 4 chipsets, as well as the nForce 500 series, which offer an FSB speed of 1GHz, or 1,000MHz.

Disk Drive Interfaces

The Nvidia nForce 4 series and the Nvidia nForce 500 series support two types of computer bus interfaces that desktop PCs use for connecting hard disk drives, which provide data storage; and optical drives, which play or record on optical discs such as CDs and DVDs. They are the Serial Advanced Technology Attachment and the Parallel ATA. The nForce 4 supports up to four ports of each interface. The nForce 500, released at a time when the Parallel ATA began to give way to the SATA, accommodates up to six SATA inputs. Some 500-series chipsets support only two PATAs instead of four. SATA peak data transfer speed for both chipsets is 3 gigabits per second.

Graphics

Both Nvidia nForce 4 and Nvidia nForce 500 chipsets are compatible with Peripheral Component Interconnect expansion slots with 2 Gbit/s. The nForce 500, however, also accommodates PCIe ports with up to 128 Gbit/s. Some nForce chipsets have an SLI designation for Nvidia's SLI Technology, used for scalable graphics performance by combining two or more video cards for a single output. The top-of-the-line chipset of the nForce 4 and 500 families is the nForce 590 SLI, which is the only one that supports the top-level PCIe x16 slot.

Tags: nForce series, Nvidia nForce, nForce chipsets, data transfer, chipsets have

Tell What Motherboard From The Serial Number On A Psp Slim

Tell What Motherboard From the Serial Number on a PSP Slim

Since its release, the PlayStation Portable, or PSP, has had a number of upgrades to both its hardware and software capabilities. The PSP's hardware has changed to, among other things, include more sophisticated motherboards and a slimmer product called the PSP Slim. With firmware updates the architecture of the PSP becomes safer and more stable, but at the cost of limiting other activities, such as playing downloaded games or homebrew material. If you attempt to modify your PSP Slim without taking into account what type of hardware, like the motherboard, is compatible with modifications, you could end up disabling your hand-held. There are simple and effective methods to tell what motherboard you likely have from the serial number.

Instructions

1. Identify your PSP Slim. There are four basic models of the PSP: the PSP-1000, the original "phat" version of the system that was released first; the PSP-2000, the more easily accessible slim version released second; the PSP-3000, a more secure slim model with nicer features, lighter weight and a microphone; and the PSPGo, which doesn't use physical Universal Media Discs to play media. The quickest method to identifying your console is to check the bar code directly under the "Start" button. If you have a PSP3000, then, as of January 2011, there are only two motherboards it can have, and you can further determine which of the two is most plausible by when you purchased it.

2. Flip the machine over and press the button shaped like a half-sphere on the left side of the console. Remove the battery. If you had trouble finding your model number because of a missing or damaged bar code, you can also find the model number here.

3. Locate the section for the serial number- it will clearly say "SERIAL No." Note the first three characters. If the serial number is "HU2," you most likely have the TA-088v3 motherboard.

4. Find the original box for your PSP Slim. Using the bar code on the label attached to the box, find out the unit identification letter. It will be listed below the version of PSP on the label. If there is a "G" here, you have either the TA-088v1, TA-088v2 or TA-088v3 motherboard. Identify the PSP's firmware to further determine what type; 3.5 firmware corresponds to TA-088v1.

5. Find the box's serial number label. It will look similar to the serial number label on the PSP Slim itself, but will have a different code that consists of a number and then a capital letter, for example, "8C." Date codes of 8C and 8D definitively are TA-088v3 motherboards. Above these and you have the TA-90v1 motherboard for a PSP2000, and below 8C you will have either the TA-088v1 or TA-088v2.

Tags: serial number, your Slim, either TA-088v1, either TA-088v1 TA-088v2, From Serial

Upgrade A Bios Proccessor

Eeprom BIOS Chip

A BIOS processor is a central processing unit that is compatible with the motherboard in use in a computer. Upgrading a BIOS processor involves updating the processors that are compatible with the BIOS. This process is desirable from time to time as new, faster processors are released that are compatible with the motherboard's socket. Upgrading requires a re-flash of the BIOS with a newer version provided from the motherboard manufacturer. These upgrades are performed through auto-executing desktop applications.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the BIOS executable file that you downloaded.

2. Double-left click the BIOS update file to launch the installer. Right-click the file and select 'Run as Administrator" if using Windows Vista or Windows 7.

3. Accept the End User License Agreement, and click "Next."

4. Close all background applications and perform no computing tasks while the BIOS is updating.

5. Confirm you wish to begin the BIOS installation process and click "OK" or "Next." This begins the update of the BIOS.

6. Reboot the computer when installation is complete if it does not reboot automatically. This allows the BIOS changes to take effect.

Tags: compatible with, that compatible, that compatible with, BIOS processor, click Next, compatible with motherboard, with motherboard

Types Of Pc Motherboards

Common motherboard types include ATX, mATX and mITX.

Most modern motherboards are based off the Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) specification released by Intel in 1995. Previously, Advanced Technology (AT) motherboards assumed that large expansion cards could hang over the processor with little clearance, because early processors did not use heat sinks. A push to standardize motherboards brought about the ATX standard, on which the mini ATX standard is also based. Newer mini ITX motherboards were developed to fit into tiny home theater PC (HTPC) computers.

ATX

After 1995, ATX motherboards replaced the earlier Advanced Technology (AT) and Baby AT motherboards. Considered a "full-sized" motherboard, the ATX standard is 30.5-by-24.4 cm and fits into most "full tower" and "mid-tower" sized computer cases. American Micro Devices (AMD) also adopted ATX standards. Consumers can buy ATX motherboards for building either Intel or AMD systems. As of August 2010, most modern personal computers (PC) used some variation of the ATX standard.

Mini ATX

Smaller than the ATX standard, mini ATX motherboards measure 28.4-by-20.8 cm. The name often is shortened to "mATX." To fit in a smaller size, mini ATX motherboards offer fewer memory sockets and less card expansion slots. A typical mini ATX motherboard, for example, only allows for installation of two memory sticks. Due to these limitations, a more powerful machine can be built with an ATX rather than a mini ATX boar. However, mini ATX allows for a smaller computer size. This standard fits in "mid-tower," "micro tower" and "micro desktop" cases.

Mini ITX

Hailed as the smallest and most energy-efficient of motherboard standards, the mini ITX began gaining in popularity after the home theater PC emerged. Some mini ITX boards use low-power, single-core Intel Atom or similar processors; others are compatible with the newest high-end Intel and AMD processors. A mini ITX (mITX) board uses a 17-by-17 mm size and only needs a 100-watt power supply. Like the mATX motherboards, mITX sacrifices power for size by offering only limited upgrade options. These motherboards include built-in graphics and offer one or two card expansion slots at most. No ITX motherboard standard exists, except for one developed in research.

Tags: Advanced Technology, mini motherboards, card expansion, card expansion slots, expansion slots, home theater

Update Network Adapter Drivers

You can update your network adapter drivers by downloading them from the Internet.

The network adapter is a card or built-in port on your computer’s motherboard that allows you to connect your computer to a network with a network cable. Like other hardware devices in your computer, the network adapter may require you to install updated drivers for better performance. You can download these drivers from the network adapter’s manufacturer website. Depending on the format of the driver, you may be able to automatically install the update or you may need to update through your computer’s device manager.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button from your computer’s desktop.

2. Right-click "Computer" and choose "Properties" from the menu.

3. Open the "Hardware" tab if you are using Windows XP and click "Device Manager." Windows Vista and 7 users can click "Device Manager" from the menu in the left panel.

4. Click on the arrow next to "Network Adapters." Your device information, such as model number and make, will appear below the entry. You will need this information to download the proper drivers.

5. Go to your network adapter’s manufacturer website and download the drivers for your device. You can usually find driver downloads under the support or driver section. Use the information you recorded from the Device Manager to download the correct drivers.

6. Locate the driver file you downloaded to your computer. If the file is an ".exe" program, double-click the file to launch an installation wizard. If the drivers downloaded as a nonexecutable file, install the drivers using the Device Manager.

7. Double-click the name of your network adapter in the Device Manager. You will open a new window with information about your adapter.

8. Navigate to the "Driver" tab and choose "Update Driver" to launch the driver installation wizard.

9. Select the "Install from a list or specific location" option if you have Windows XP. Windows Vista and 7 users should choose "Browse my computer for driver software."

10. Click "Search for the best driver in these locations" if you have Windows XP, then check the box next to "Include this location in the search."

11. Browse for the driver and double-click on the file to load it.

12. Click "Next" to allow the installation wizard to update your network adapter driver.

Tags: network adapter, your network, Device Manager, installation wizard, your computer

Update An Hp Pavilion Xt963 Computer

The HP Pavilion Xt963 is an older desktop computer that features a Pentium III 1.2 GHz Celeron processor, according to HP product specifications. That's not a really "fast" computer by more recent standards, but it runs Windows XP well and is still a useful computer for many everyday tasks. While the processor can't be upgraded due to motherboard limitations, other affordable upgrades can improve the overall performance and speed of the Xt963.

Instructions

Update an HP Pavilion Xt963 Computer

1. Shut down and unplug the computer from all cable connections. Open the cover. Look at the two RAM memory slots. Remove any memory sticks present by unlocking the white tabs and carefully withdrawing the stick(s) from the slots. Examine the labels. The maximum amount of RAM for the Xt963 is 512 MB. If your machine has less than 512 MB ram, you should upgrade to the maximum amount. Use PC100 or PC133 speed ram. If using two sticks of 256 MB, make sure they are both of the same speed.

2. Examine the empty PCI Expansion Card slots in the lower left hand corner of the motherboard. You should have two slots available for upgrades. Improve your graphics capabilities by installing a 32 MB, 64 MB, or 128 MB PCI-type video card in one of the slots. See Resources links for how add PCI cards. You can choose to add either a USB card or a better sound card in the second open slot. Adding more USB ports allows you to do further upgrades with more USB devices, including Ethernet and FireWire, even though you don't have any more PCI slots available.

3. Check your Optical Drive configurations. According to HP Product Specifications, the Xt963 normally came with only one CD-RW drive. You can upgrade to a second CD-RW drive, or add a DVD drive. See install a new Optical Drive in Resources section.

4. Determine the storage capacity of your hard drive. If your original 40 gigabyte hard drive is nearly full, you can upgrade to a larger hard drive. Use a program like Acronis Easy-Migrate to move your present operating system, device drivers, and all your personal files and software safely to the new hard drive.

5. Clean the processor fan and/or the heat sink. Use a can of pressurized air to gently blow away dust and debris from the fan blades and/or the metal fins on the heat sink. A build-up of dirt on these components will slow down a processor, degrade it over time, and can cause heat failure. Blow out any other dirt and dust present inside the case, including inside the vents of the power supply.

Tags: hard drive, Pavilion Xt963, CD-RW drive, heat sink, maximum amount, Optical Drive, Pavilion Xt963 Computer

The Basic Functions Of An Operating System

Operating systems provide user access to computing resources.

Operating systems manage user interaction with the physical resources a computer provides. Through an operating system, users are able to carry out every day computing activities including running applications, accessing websites, using email and storing files, such as data and media items. The main operating systems used on desktop and laptop computers include various versions of Microsoft Windows and Mac, plus a variety of Linux distributions, including Ubuntu. Their interfaces and approaches may vary, but the main functions within an operating system are broadly the same.

Process Management

Computing applications and functions are carried out primarily by one or more processing chips. Operating systems can appear to run several processes simultaneously, but in fact several tasks are alternated between by a single processor at a speed faster than users can detect. This allows several programs and computing activities to operate at the same time from the user's point of view. Each application or activity runs within a single dedicated process, with the operating system scheduling and managing the processing resources between activities.

Memory Management

Operating systems use Random Access Memory to store the short-term data required for applications and other computer functions to operate. Each computing activity that is ongoing has a certain amount of memory allocated to it, which the operating system manages. In cases where an application attempts to do something that there is not enough memory for, an operating system can sometimes use virtual memory to carry out the required processing, by utilizing a section of hard disk memory and using it as though it is RAM.

File Management

Computer devices can store many different types of data, file and document. This may include personal user files, such as word processing documents, photographic images and video. Applications installed on the computer may also be associated with numerous files required when they execute. The operating system manages the storage and use of these files, including viewing, editing and deleting. Most operating systems provide a graphical user interface for user access to the file system, such as Windows Explorer or Finder on Mac OS X.

Input / Output

Computers use a variety of channels for user interaction. Computer output includes the monitor and audio speakers or headphones, while input includes the mouse and keyboard. These are the standard input / output elements in a desktop or laptop computer, while mobile devices sometimes offer additional elements. These hardware components are managed by the operating system through the use of drivers. Drivers handle communication between the user and the hardware provided within a given computing system, including capturing and interpreting user input and presenting output in response to it.

Applications

The operating system itself is a software application. In most cases, however, user access to computing resources takes place through other applications. There are some applications installed on an operating system when it is initially installed itself, but users can also install additional software either from disk or by downloading over the Web. The operating system handles the execution of applications as well as managing the resources they require, such as memory and input / output. Common applications include Web browsers, email clients, word processing programs and media players.

Tags: operating system, user access, access computing, access computing resources, computing activities, computing resources, desktop laptop

Specs For The Emachine Ms7211 Motherboard

The Californian computer company eMachines uses the MS-7211 motherboard in a number of its products. This motherboard is produced by the Taiwanese computer components manufacturer Micro-Star International. The MS-7211 is an all-in-one motherboard, featuring integrated graphics and audio capabilities.

Processor

The MS-7211 accepts an Intel brand processor using an LGA 775 type processor socket. This includes Intel Pentium 4 processors -- specifically, the Intel Pentium 4 Prescott and Prescott-Celeron models.

Chipset

The MS-7211 uses a VIA P4M800CE chipset. This includes a Ball Grid Array (BGA) graphics section, which uses an S3 Graphics Unichrome Pro Integrated Graphics core. The chipset also includes integrated Sound Blaster/Direct Sound AC97 audio.

BIOS

The MS-7211 BIOS uses "Plug & Play" technology to detect peripheral devices and expansion cards automatically. This also provides a Desktop Management Interface (DMI) that records your motherboard specifications.

Dimensions

The MS-7211 is 9.65 inches long by 8.26 inches wide and uses six mounting holes to attach to a frame.

Tags: Intel Pentium, This includes

Specs For The Geforce 6150se

Specs for the GeForce 6150SE

The Nvidia GeForce 6150 SE is not a standalone graphics card like most of Nvidia's Geforce line. The GeForce 6150 SE is an integrated motherboard GPU. It provides computers without a standalone graphics card, features that wouldn't normally be available.

Compatibility

The 6150 SE integrated into motherboards that utilize the AMD Athlon 64 X2 and the Athlon 64 Sempron. It supports DDR and DDR2 memory. DDR2 is only available if the motherboard is built with an AM2 socket for the processor. The 6150 SE motherboard can also be equipped with a PCI-E 16x expansion slot for a standalone card to be added.

GPU

The 6150 SE has a core clock speed of 425 MHz. It supports DirectX 9.0 and Shader Model 3.0. The 6150 SE provides full support for OpenGL 1.5 applications. The 6150 SE also utilizes NVidia's PureVideo technology. PureVideo enhances video with smoother playback and more accurate color.

Limitations

The 6150 SE does not support any version of DirectX past 10.0 or Shader Models past 3.0. The integrated GPU also does not offer HD video playback. Finally, the 6150 SE does not provide support for multiple monitor displays. These limitations can only be overcome by installing a standalone graphics card that supports these features.

Tags: graphics card, standalone graphics, standalone graphics card, 6150 does, 6150 integrated

Tell If A Processor Is 32 Bit

Many processors still operate at a 32-bit rate.

Determining a computer's bit rate (how speedily the processor or CPU handles data) is useful to know, especially when adding new software or devices. Most processors work at a 32-bit rate or the faster 64-bit. While 32-bit programs (aside for some anti-virus software) will operate on 64-bit systems, 32-bit devices such as printers need a 32-bit system to function. Since PCs and Intel-equipped Macs both use 32-bit or 64-bit processors, the method for determining their bit rate is similar.

Instructions

For Windows

1. Click the "Start" icon in the lower left corner of the desktop.

2. Select "All Programs" from the list.

3. Select "Accessories" and then "System Tools."

4. Click on "System Information" to display the System Summary. Locate the Processor heading in the Item column. Identify 32-bit processors by referring to the Value column where they will be listed as "32-bit" or "x86."

For Intel-Equipped Macs

5. Select "About This Mac" from the pull-down Apple menu. Click on "More Info."

6. Click "Hardware" from the Contents column and refer to the Processor Name in the Hardware Overview column to determine what type of processor it is equipped with.

7. Verify the processor is 32-bit by confirming the Processor Name as an Intel Core Solo or Intel Core Duo.

Tags: 32-bit rate, Intel Core, Processor Name

Which Games Run With Integrated Geforce 6150 Graphics

Many online PC games will also run on your GeForce 6150-powered machine.

One of the features of the Nvidia nForce4 MCP motherboards is the inclusion of the Nvidia GeForce 6150 integrated graphics processing units. The inclusion of this GPU allows any PC to become operational without a video card installed. Because of the natural progression of CPU technology, the GeForce 6150 combined with a high-end Pentium 4 or AMD 64-bit Athlon CPU is capable of supporting some older PC titles, including a few that are considered to be classics among gamers.

SCUMM Games

SCUMM, which is short for Script Creation Utility for Maniac Mansion, is a game engine that has powered some of the most memorable and influential early PC titles. Games such as "The Curse of Monkey Island," "Maniac Mansion" and "Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis" are all games that were built on the SCUMM engine. Due to the game engine's simplicity, the games require very little CPU and even less GPU resources to run smoothly, making them ideal for any PC powered by the GeForce 6150 GPU.

Diablo II

Released in 2000, "DIablo II" from Blizzard Entertainment remains one of the most popular online games for the PC. This is due in part to a large and avid fanbase, as well as the fact that just about any computer can run it. In fact, "DIablo II" requires a CPU of 233 MHz or faster, 32MB of RAM and a GPU that can support DirectX. Any nForce 4 motherboard with the GeForce 6150 integrated GPU will more than meet those requirements, allowing you to quickly jump in to the game.

Counter-Strike

Another popular PC title, "Counter-Strike" has been played both casually and competitively since 2000, with few updates since 2003. Like "Diablo II," one of the reasons for its enduring popularity is its ability to run on just about any machine, whether desktop or laptop. In order to run the game smoothly, you have to turn down some of the graphics effects such as shadows and explosion animations unless the computer has a high-end CPU, but getting the game to run should be no problem at all.

Tags: GeForce 6150, 6150 integrated, game engine, GeForce 6150 integrated, just about

Integrated Graphics Vs Dedicated Video Card

Graphics solutions for computers can either be dedicated components, or built into the motherboard.

When purchasing a new computer, an important decision you have to make is whether to buy a dedicated or integrated graphics solution for your system. A quick look at the key differences can help you make the right decision for your new computer.

The Physical Difference

The main difference between integrated graphics and dedicated video cards is the physical hardware. An integrated graphics card is built as a part of the motherboard, while a dedicated video card is a separate component to the computer that is plugged into an expansion slot on the motherboard.

Serviceability

Because of the differences in the nature of these two types of graphics cards, dedicated graphics cards serve as a more flexible and easily serviced solution. If either the motherboard or the video card fails on an integrated graphics solution, both components must be replaced. With a dedicated graphics card, you can easily replace a failed graphics card without having to replace any extra parts.

Cost

Although integrated graphics solutions are not as serviceable, they are much more affordable. Because the component is built directly into the motherboard, integrated graphics cards cost less than dedicated cards. Dedicated cards have a wide price range, with some costing as much as the price of a low-end computer.

Performance

Dedicated video cards perform much stronger than integrated graphics systems. Because dedicated cards have their own memory and processing power, they are able to take on much more demanding processes than an integrated graphics system. Integrated systems tend to use the system RAM to help compute graphic processes, thereby making the system less efficient.

Choosing the Right Solution

When building a new computer, it is important to keep in mind what you are looking to build it for. If you are putting together a simple computer to handle word processing, email and web browsing, then most likely you will not need to spend extra money on a dedicated graphics card. However, if you are looking to use the computer for graphically intense software such as video games, a dedicated video card is almost a must for most programs on the market.

Tags: graphics card, integrated graphics, integrated graphics, dedicated graphics, graphics cards

Troubleshooting A Blue Screen On A Gateway Laptop

A blue screen error might indicate a problem with the operating system.

A blue screen error on any computer, including a Gateway, is Windows' way of saying there is a problem with the system. Although many people refer to these events as death screens, the truth is they often indicate a fixable problem. Gateway laptops work much the same as any other system when loaded with a Windows operating platform. Troubleshooting a blue screen error begins with a few steps to fix some common errors.

Instructions

Run Windows Updates

1. Open Internet Explorer on your computer. Double-click on the desktop icon or locate the program in the "Start" menu. Click on the "Start" button at the bottom of your desktop to open the "Start" menu.

2. Move to "Tools" at the top of the Internet Explorer screen. Select "Windows Update" from the Tools menu. Let the system run a complete update and download any new security packs for the computer.

3. Reboot the computer once the update process is complete. This may take care of the error and eliminate the blue screen. If not, continue to Section 2.

Repair Boot Sectors -- Windows XP, Vista or 7

4. Insert the Windows installation disk into the CD drive. Reboot the computer.

5. Press any key to boot the computer from the CD or DVD.

6. Move the pointer to "Repair your Computer" and click to select the option from the installation menu on the screen.

7. Highlight the operating system producing the blue screen and press the "Enter" key.

8. Select "Command Prompt" from the System Recovery Options.

9. Type "Bootrec /fixmbr" at the C: prompt on the screen. Press enter to start the process.

10. Restart the computer once the repair completes.

Last Known Good Configuration (Windows XP only)

11. Restart the computer.

12. Press the "F8" key on the keyboard as the computer begins. You must press the button before the "Windows" screen appears.

13. Use the arrow key on the keyboard to highlight "Last Known Good Configuration." Press the "Enter" key to select this option. Let the process run and reboot the computer.

Tags: blue screen, blue screen error, screen error, blue screen, computer once, computer Press

What Is An Atx Power Supply

An ATX power supply is a power supply designed for the ATX form factor--the standard size of computer towers, motherboards and components.

Function

Power supplies convert current from an electrical outlet to voltages that a computer can use.

Identification

Power supplies usually look like cubes of metal with one or two fans. They are normally found in the upper back corner of computer cases.

Specifications

Power supplies vary greatly in how much wattage they can deliver to a computer. Running a computer with many high level devices requires more powerful power supplies.

Upgrades

ATX power supplies can usually be upgraded easily and do not require any changes to an operating system or software.

Issues

Power supplies are one of the most common hardware devices in a computer to experience complete failure or burnout. If a computer is very hot and smells like it is burning, there is a good chance the power supply has burned out.

Tags: Power supplies, power supplies, Power supplies, power supply, supplies usually

Specs Of The Ati Radeon 3100 Graphics Adapter

Graphics cards allow you to play sophisticated 3D games on your laptop.

Computer graphics technology has come a long way. Small laptops are now able to run complex graphics and animations without having to sacrifice battery life. The cards are referred to as hybrid graphics cards or adapters. One popular example of such an adapter is the ATI Radeon 3100. It comes installed on many computers as part of AMD's 780v chipset.

PCI Express 2nd Generation

The ATI Radeon 3100 uses PCI Express second generation technology. As of 2010, this is the fastest interface for a graphics card available on a laptop. It is also considered to be one of the most energy efficient.

AMD Cool 'n' Quiet

The adapter also comes equipped with "AMD Cool 'n' Quiet" 2.0. This technology is basically AMD's innovation that allows you to have the graphic processing power you have become accustomed to on your home desktop on your laptop. There is little publicly available regarding the technical specifications of the technology, as it is proprietary and closed source. However, the technology has had a number of favorable reviews.

DirectX 10

Full DirectX 10 support meets the requirements of Microsoft's "Premium certification." DirectX is the de facto standard for gaming on Windows, and supporting it is one of the most important things any graphics adapter can do. If you have any interest in gaming, then DirectX support is a must have feature.

Hybrid Graphics

Another important feature is called hybrid graphics. That means that the ATI 3100 does not work like a full desktop graphics card in the way that it process graphical information. Basically, the adapter itself has a specific amount of memory dedicated for playing videos and rendering games and can borrow memory from the RAM, if more memory is needed. This allows the adapter to be both powerful and energy efficient.

Tags: Radeon 3100, Cool Quiet, DirectX support, energy efficient, graphics card

What Is A Vt6421a Serial Ata Raid Pci Controller Card

The VIA VT6421A controller card adds Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) support to desktop computers with an available PCI slot. It lets you install multiple IDE or SATA hard drives to increase performance or back up your data.

Function

VIA's VT6421A controller card supports up to three Serial ATA drives and one IDE drive. It lets you run two Serial ATA drives in RAID mode. You can use RAID striping to combine two hard drives into one virtual drive for faster transfer rates, or RAID mirror to synchronize two drives in case of data loss or hardware failure.

Features

The VIA VT6421 controller card supports transfer rates up to 150 mbps when used with SATA drives and 133 mbps with an IDE drive. It also provides an external Serial ATA interface for connecting external SATA hard drives, DVD or Blu-Ray recorders.

Considerations

Use RAID striping with the VIA VT6421 card if you have another back-up solution and want better performance in games, video editing programs and other disk-intensive software. Use the card's RAID mirroring feature if you need an efficient method for backing up your data.

Tags: controller card, hard drives, card supports, controller card supports, RAID striping, SATA hard, SATA hard drives

The Difference Between Desktop & Workstation Video Cards

A single workstation GPU can run all of these.

Desktop video cards are typically designed for non-commercial use. Workstation video cards are engineered with graphically intensive applications in mind. Workstation video cards are frequently used in jobs ranging from processing high resolution imagery from scientific surveys, to creating and editing digital content. Workstation video cards perform a number of specialized functions and are typically built to a higher standard.

Color Depth

Many workstation graphics cards are capable of processing 30-bit color depth. This feature allows workstation video cards to choose from over a billion colors per pixel. This feature ensures that workstation video cards are capable of accurately rendering and representing data that is processed at a workstation. Typical desktop video cards are only capable of 24-bit color depth. Although most desktop cards claim to support 32-bit color depth this is actually a misleading designation that includes non-color depth bits.

Multiple Displays

Many modern desktop video cards are capable of running two or more monitors simultaneously. However, workstation video cards are frequently designed to operate more than two monitors at time. Workstation cards offer the ability to operate multiple screens in conjunction, to form one large screen or to process different images to be sent to separate monitors.

Hardware

Desktop and workstation video cards utilize significantly different types of hardware. Workstation video card GPU's are designed to provide workstation users with a variety of features that are useful in professional settings, such as 30-bit color depth and framelock.

Framelock

Framelock is a feature offered on workstation video cards that allows an image to be displayed across multiple monitors. Framelock works by synchronizing images that are displayed in stereo to turn several monitors into one larger monitor. This technology is different from multi-monitor displays found on desktop computers in that workstation computers using framelock can also synchronize with other video cards to maintain a multi-monitor display.

Drivers

According to Alexis Mather, the marketing manager of AMD's workstation graphics division, workstation graphics cards typically have higher quality drivers due to the fact that developers work very closely with vendors and consumers of workstation graphics cards to ensure a high level of quality. Workstation graphics cards also put more emphasis on openGL support. Desktop video cards also utilize openGL but tend to emphasize direct3D. OpenGL is an important feature for workstation video cards due to its heavy use in the digital content creation market.

Tags: video cards, video cards, color depth, graphics cards, workstation graphics, cards capable

Upgrade An Ex470 Cpu

The HP EX470 media server differs from a standard desktop PC in that it is meant to store data for multiple computers in a single location. The computer is also designed slightly differently than a normal desktop workstation, which changes how internal components are accessed for upgrades. The EX470 ships with an AMD Sempron 1.8GHz processor. If your networked computers need the HP server to run faster and provide swifter file retrieval, the current CPU is capable of being upgraded with a newer processor.

Instructions

1. Shut down the HP EX470 computer and unplug each of the cables attached to the back end of the case. Wait five minutes for the CPU to cool down completely.

2. Grip the right edge of the plastic front panel on the computer case. Pull open the panel to reveal the five drive bays. Grab the black plastic handle at the bottom edge of the fifth drive bay near the bottom of the computer.

3. Lift up the handle and pull the drive out of the computer's case. Repeat the process with each of the other four drives, working from bottom to top. Locate the two Phillips screws on the plastic cover at the lower right edge of the case.

4. Remove both screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the plastic cover toward you slowly until you see the cable attached to the back side of the cover. Unplug the cable and set the cover aside.

5. Loosen and remove the two screws at the bottom of the case holding the motherboard. Pull the entire motherboard toward you until the metal heat sink positioned over the CPU becomes visible.

6. Remove the four screws holding the silver heat sink to the CPU. Lift the heat sink upward and set it upside-down outside the HP computer to gain access to the square CPU.

7. Grip the bar positioned directly below the AMD Sempron CPU. Lift the bar up and push it over to the right to unlock the Sempron from the CPU socket. Pull the CPU off the socket and set it aside.

8. Place your new CPU on top of the empty CPU socket and push the component down so it connects with the socket. Lift up the bar and push it over to the left to lock the component to the socket.

9. Wipe a thin layer of thermal cooling paste on top of the new CPU, using the applicator that came with the cooling paste. Set the silver heat sink on top of the new CPU and replace the four screws to lock it in position. Slide the motherboard back into the computer and replace the two motherboard screws.

10. Reattach the cable to the plastic cover and set the cover on the computer case. Replace the two screws you removed and slide the five drive bays back into place. Push the front cover back into its original position and plug in each of the computer's cables.

Tags: heat sink, back into, computer case, plastic cover, attached back, cooling paste, drive bays

What Is The Default Dvi Port On The 4870x2 Card

The 4870 X2 is a high-performance graphics card developed by AMD. The 4870 X2 incorporates 2 GB of GDDR5 memory to deliver 2.4 teraflops of graphics power. The card includes a number of ports for connecting one or more monitor or display devices.

Default DVI Port

The default DVI port for ATI Radeon HD 4800 series graphics cards, such as the 4870 X2, is the port on the left that is labeled "1" in the Radeon HD 4800 series user guide. This DVI port can be used to connect a single monitor or video display directly to the graphics card itself or by using a display adapter such as a DVI-to-VGA or DVI-to-HDMI converter.

Secondary DVI Port

The secondary DVI port for ATI Radeon HD 4800 series graphics card can be used to extend the desktop using a dual-monitor system or connect to another display device such as an HDTV or projector. Like the default DVI port, a video display device can be connected directly to the DVI port, or an adapter such as a DVI-to-VGA or DVI-to-HDMI converter can be used to connect the display device.

TV/HDTV Output

Besides the two DVI ports on the 4870 X2 card, the graphics card also includes a 7-pin HDTV output connector for connecting the graphics card to display on an HDTV or standard television. A 7-pin output cable can be connected to the output connector and allows for the connection of a HDTV device using composite or standard RCA cables.

Tags: graphics card, 4800 series, display device, Radeon 4800, Radeon 4800 series

Where Is The Integrated Intel Pro/100m Pci Nic Driver

The Intel Pro/100M is a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) network interface card (NIC). There are similar network adapters from Intel that are integrated, but whether you have a PCI or integrated adapter, finding the driver is not difficult as it is usually in one of a few common places.

Disc

The most common place to find the driver for the network adapter is on a CD that came with the product or with the computer if the card is integrated. If you bought a motherboard separately which has the network card on board, the disk should have come with the board.

Online

If you don't have a CD with the driver on it, you can almost always find Intel drivers from the Intel website or the website of the computer retailer under the support section.

Windows

Microsoft Windows usually comes with driver support for most hardware compatible with into Windows. After installing the device, Windows will find it and assign it a Windows driver that should work with it. In some cases, the driver may not work but for something as simple as an Intel network card, that should not be a problem.

Tags: from Intel, network card, that should, with driver

Which Emulators Support The Xbox 360 Controller

The Wireless Xbox 360 Controller for Windows works with most computer emulators.

Microsoft produces the Wireless Xbox 360 Controller for Windows. The controller works with both Xbox 360 consoles, and most Windows XP-based operating systems and above. Although designed primarily to played disk based computer games, the controller works with the some of the most popular video game emulators.

Fusion

Fusion is a video game emulator that supports several different Sega video game consoles, including Sega SG1000, SC3000, Master System, Game Gear, Genesis, Sega CD and 32X. It provides support for virtually any recognized game controller, which includes the Xbox 360 controller for Windows. Fusion has the option to configure the button layout of the controller as well, adding a layer of customized game play.

Visual Boy Advance

Visual Boy Advanced helps you play games from Nintendo's Game Boy Advanced. Original Game Boy Color games are also playable on the Visual Boy Advanced. Like Fusion, Visual Boy Advanced supports the Xbox 360 controller for Windows, as well as nearly every other PC-designed game controller. You need the latest version of Microsoft DirectX to run the emulator, however.

ZSNES

ZSNES is a video game emulator capable of playing games from the Super Nintendo console. The ZSNES supports all of Super Nintendo's technologies, including DSP1, SuperFX and C4 emulation. The emulator supports PC controller support, including the Xbox 360 controller for Windows. Like the Visual Boy Advance, the ZSNES requires at least version 8.0 or higher of Microsoft DirectX.

Project64

Project64 is an emulator that plays video games from the Nintendo 64 console. Providing support for Windows 95 operating systems and later, Project64 should work on the majority of personal computers. Due to the complex control scheme of the Nintendo 64, you should use a PC game controller while playing Project64. Fortunately, the Xbox 360 controller for Windows works with Project64 as well.

Warnings

Playing illegally downloaded games on an emulator is a crime. When using an emulator, make sure you only play "Homebrew" games (free games produced by independent consumers for the emulator).

Tags: video game, works with, controller Windows, game controller, games from, Visual Advanced, Xbox controller Windows

Msi Afterburner Compatibility

MSI Afterburner helps improve 3-D graphics performance in computer games.

In addition to notebooks, servers and multimedia devices, Taiwanese tech company MSI manufactures graphics cards for prominent industry figures such as Nvidia and AMD. The company also offers free Afterburner software, a utility that monitors graphics performance and allows you to overclock your graphics processor to increase its speed. Afterburner features video-capturing tools, and monitors fan speed, temperature, voltage and frame rate, but only works with certain graphics cards on certain computers.

MSI Graphics Cards

Afterburner software caters exclusively to MSI-made graphics cards. As of February 2012, these include cards under the Nvidia GeForce label, such as the GeForce 500, 400, 200, 9 and 8 series, which encompass GeForce GT, GTS and GTX cards. Likewise, Afterburner works with AMD cards in the Radeon HD 7000, 6000, 5000 and 400 series.

PCs

The desktop version of Afterburner, MSI's flagship performance-boosting program, only runs on the Microsoft Windows operating system. Compatible versions include 32- and 64-bit Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7. You'll need about 25MB of free space and an extraction utility to run the compressed Afterburner installer on your PC.

Apps

As a companion product for the home version of Afterburner, MSI's Afterburner App lets you monitor and overclock your PC's graphics card using your mobile smartphone or tablet. The application is compatible with PCs running Windows XP SP3, Vista or 7 operating systems. On the mobile end, it works with Wi-Fi-enabled Android phones using the Android operating system version 2.1 or later as well as iPhones and iPads with iOS version 4 or above.

Considerations

As of February 2012, MSI Afterburner has reached version 2.1.0. MSI and other freeware websites make the desktop version of Afterburner and the Afterburner App available for download. MSI also offers free downloadable skins for Afterburner. Results may vary depending on your system, but MSI touts a performance boost of about 93 percent for the average Afterburner user.

Tags: graphics cards, version Afterburner, works with, Afterburner Afterburner, Afterburner software, also offers

My Raspberry Plants Have Yellow Speckled Leaves

Raspberry bushes can suffer from diseases that limit fruit production.

Several diseases cause raspberry bushes to develop yellow leaves with a mottled or speckled appearance. Once you identify diseased plants, control measures can help limit the problem so fruit production gets back to normal. Does this Spark an idea?

Description

The mosaic disease consists of more than one virus that affects raspberry plants. Some of the symptoms include yellowing leaves mottled with yellow or pale green spots. Another disease, raspberry streak, affects black raspberry plants. The leaves appear yellow along the veins while appearing mottled throughout the rest of the leaves.

Damage

Plants infected with mosaic disease appear more stunted each growing season. Reduced fruit yield and dying canes are also common. Raspberry streak disease causes the leaves to twist and roll while the fruits stay small and lack flavor. The fruit also looks blotched.

Control

Choosing disease-resistant plants helps keep problems to a minimum. Removing all plants showing virus symptoms can keep the virus from moving to healthy plants. Since aphids often help spread disease, getting rid of the tiny insects right before you pull the infected plants helps stop the disease.

Tags: fruit production, mosaic disease, plants helps, raspberry plants

Troubleshoot Windows Xp Problems After Motherboard Installation

When a motherboard is replaced in a Windows XP-based computer, it is common for problems to occur, as a result of driver errors. When Windows is originally installed, the system files are configured based upon the drivers for the motherboard that is currently installed.

Once the board has been replaced, it is common for the system to experience problems, since it is configured around the previous board's chipset drivers.

Although the best course of action to remedy this problem entiails a complete format and reinstall of Windows XP, the issues can usually be remedied via less drastic methods.

Instructions

1. Insert the system CD that came with the motherboard, and follow the instructions on the window that appears to install the motherboard drivers. If multiple devices are listed, install the drivers for each one. If you don't have the motherboard's system CD, a copy of the drivers can normally be downloaded from the motherboard manufacturer's website.

2. Restart the computer and attempt to recreate the problem the system was experiencing. If the previous step did not fix this issue, a repair installation of Windows XP will be required. This will rebuild all of the system files around the current motherboard drivers.

3. Insert the Windows XP recovery CD that came with your computer into the disk drive, and restart the computer. If you no longer have that CD, or one didn't come with the computer, contact the manufacturer for a replacement before continuing.

4. Follow the instructions on the screen once the Windows XP installer has appeared. It may take several minutes for the installer to fully load. When prompted, select a "repair" installation. Do not select any option besides "repair," or all of the data on the hard drive will be permanently deleted.

5. Allow the repair installation to complete; the computer will then restart automatically. When Windows XP finishes booting, the system will be properly configured around the new hardware, and any related problems will be gone.

Tags: repair installation, came with, configured around, motherboard drivers, system files, that came, that came with

What Is An Asus K8vmx/S

Released in 2006, the ASUS K8V-MX is a motherboard from Taiwanese computer technology manufacturer ASUSTeK Computer Incorporated. Like other motherboards, it acts as the heart of a personal computer, containing several crucial components; the K8V-MX/S in particular is used for desktop PCs. Notably, it is based on technology from semiconductor company Advanced Micro Devices. Although ASUS no longer manufactures the K8V-MX, customers can purchase the motherboard at a price range of $30 to $100.

Form Factor and Processor

The ASUS K8V-MX/S uses the microATX (Micro Advanced Technology eXtended) motherboard form factor, using its maximum size of 9.6 inches by 9.6 inches, or 24.5 centimeters by 24.5 centimeters. Each motherboard has a component called Socket 754 for connecting a processor from AMD's mid-range Athlon or low-end Sempron brand for a data transfer rate of 1,600MHz.

System Memory and Expansion Ports

The ASUS K8V-MX/S bears two dual inline memory module slots, supporting up to 2GB of system memory, as well as access speeds of up to 400MHz. An Accelerated Graphics Port offering up to 2,133MB per second in data transmission and three Peripheral Component Interconnect interfaces serve as the motherboard's expansion ports for components such as wireless network cards, graphics processing units and modem cards.

Audio/Video and Networking

The ASUS K8V-MX/S audio provisions primarily consist of a six-channel AD1888 SoundMAX sound driver from Analog Devices, Inc. and Sony Philips Digital Interface. The K8M800 and VT8237R from VIA Technologies combine to provide the desktop's video and graphics capabilities. The Realtek RTL8201CL Ethernet driver provides the wired networking, with a peak data transfer speed of 100 megabits per second.

Other Connectors

Parallel and serial ports, two PS/2 ports for the computer keyboard and mouse, Video Graphics Array connector for the computer monitor, audio input/output, RJ-45 jack for the Ethernet and four USB 2.0 ports are located at the ASUS K8V-MX/S' back panel. Also included at two Serial Advanced Technology Attachment interfaces and two Parallel ATA interfaces called UltraDMA with up to a 100-MHz frequency, which can be used for hard disk drives or optical drives.

Tags: ASUS K8V-MX, Advanced Technology, data transfer

What Is Computer Internal Memory

Computer internal memory is used to store data that is used by the system at startup and to run various types of programs such as the operating system. Typically, internal memory is contained on small microchips that are either attached or connected to the computer's motherboard. Computer memory can range from a couple of megabytes to several gigabytes.

Processor Cache

The processor cache is memory that is used with the processor to facilitate the access of data from the system's mail memory or RAM. The processor cache typically consists of two levels, which are the L1 cache and the L2 cache. The L1 cache is directly accessed by the computer's processor and holds data that the processor needs to execute instructions. The L2 cache pulls information from the system's main memory, which is then accessed by the L1 cache.

RAM

The physical memory that is installed in a computer system is referred to as random access memory, or RAM. Programs such as the operating system use RAM to store running programs so that the system does not need to access the hard drive very often. RAM is volatile, which means it needs power from the computer in order to store data. Once the system is turned off the data is lost. RAM that is used in a computer system can range from 512 MB to 3 or more GB.

Video RAM

This type of memory can be contained on a graphics card or shared with the system's main memory or RAM. Video RAM is used to store information that is sent to a display device such as a computer monitor. RAM was added to graphics cards because programs such as games were becoming very graphics intensive. This required having separate RAM to store the graphics data instead of using the system memory. Video RAM can range from 256 MB up to 2 GB or more, depending on the type of graphics card.

Virtual Memory

Virtual memory is an area of the hard drive that a computer system uses as if it were physical RAM. The purpose of virtual memory is to have a place to store program data once the physical memory or RAM becomes full. Virtual memory is much slower than physical memory, but it is there when needed by the system. Virtual memory can be automatically determined by the system of set manually by the user.

Boot Memory

Boot memory or flash memory is the small amount of memory that the computer system uses to store the BIOS. The BIOS, or basic input/output system, contains information that tells the system components communicate with each other. The size of the boot memory is normally a few megabytes in size.

Tags: computer system, memory that, physical memory, range from, that used, Virtual memory, cache cache

Optiplex 745 Motherboard Specs

Released in 2005, Dell's OptiPlex 745 series computers are a business line of towers, desktops and thin clients that were once well-suited to an office environment. Sizes of the OptiPlex 745 include the mini tower, desktop, small size and ultra small form factor, or USFF. Due to the variety of sizes, the motherboards for this series also vary in size as well as number of ports and connectors.

Processor Support

The socket type on the OptiPlex 745 motherboard is a 775. Processor options for this model included Intel's Celeron D, Pentium 4, Pentium D and Core 2 Duo lines. The lowest option was the Celeron D 300 series with a 533 MHz bus speed. A Core 2 Duo with 1066 MHz bus speed and two cores was the most high-end option. The other processors have 800 MHz bus speeds.

Memory Bays

All but the USFF version of the 745 model have four memory bays that support up to 8 GB of memory. The USFF version has two bays and supports up to 4 GB of memory. The memory type is Double Data Rate 2, and supported speeds include 533 MHz, 667 MHz and 800 MHz.

Graphics

Graphics are handled by Intel's Q965 Express chipset and the Graphics Media Accelerator 3000. The onboard graphics include 256 MB of shared video memory. The USFF offers one built-in DVI-I port, while the rest use a VGA port instead. All but the USFF version include at least one PCI expansion port for installing a video card. The desktop and small form versions require low-profile cards, but full-sized cards are compatible with the mini tower version.

Drive Support

OptiPlex 745 motherboards include four, two or one Serial Advanced Technology Attachment connectors and a 34-pin floppy drive connector. The USFF version does not include floppy support. Other than the floppy drive connector, there are no Integrated Drive Electronics connectors for use with a hard drive or an optical drive.

Ports

Ports on the OptiPlex 745 motherboards include three to four USB, one parallel, and a line-in and line-out audio jack. These ports are located at the back of the motherboard and do not include ports built into the front of the computer's case or those that are on expansion cards.

Tags: USFF version, desktop small, drive connector, floppy drive, floppy drive connector

Update The Bios For Amd Athlon Xp

Upgrading the system BIOS on your AMD Athlon XP computer is necessary when a new BIOS revision has emerged, clearing up bug issues present in previous revisions and increasing the speed potential of your computer. Accomplish this by flashing the BIOS of the Athlon computer from DOS, a process which takes less than 10 minutes to successfully complete.

Instructions

1. Insert the blank disk into your Athlon XP computer.

2. Navigate to the page of your computer manufacturer. Click on the "Downloads" link, enter the model number of your computer, and click "Search" to find the latest BIOS file and BIOS utility. Click "Download" for both and save them to the disk.

3. Insert the boot disk into the computer. Restart your Athlon XP computer and press any key when prompted to boot into DOS.

4. Insert the disk containing the new BIOS files. Type "a:'update' " and press "Enter," replacing "update" with the full name of the update utility; for instance, awdflash.exe.

5. Type in "a:'new' " and press "Enter," replacing "new" with the name of your updated BIOS file; for instance, BIOS1234.bin.

Tags: Athlon computer, your Athlon, your Athlon computer, your computer, BIOS file, disk into, Enter replacing

What Are The Five Main Categories Of Computers

A workstation, or desktop, is one common category of computers.

Computers are essentially machines that can make complex and rapid calculations. They respond to instructions, better known as programs. To be a computer, a machine must have a CPU (central processing unit) and memory storage. Computers vary in size and functionality, but most of them fall within one of five categories.

Desktop Computers

Workstations, or desktop computers as they're more commonly called, are relatively large and powerful personal computers. They usually consist of several main parts, including a monitor, a tower, a keyboard and a mouse. Other components, such as speakers, printers or external hard drives, can be attached to the tower, therefore linking it to the rest of the computer. These computers also have relatively high quality monitors and larger amounts of RAM than smaller personal computers.

Laptop Computers

Laptop computers are also sometimes called notebook computers because of their size and the fact that they can be folded. They're essentially portable desktop computers, with a keyboard, monitor, hard drive and mouse--all built into a single machine. The monitors aren't generally of the same caliber as desktop computers and they may have less memory, but their portability makes them a viable option for many people.

Handhelds

Handhelds are smaller versions of laptops, but don't have as much functionality. A handheld device, such as a PDA or smart phone, can travel just about anywhere, but they're not as capable as other personal computers. They're excellent for checking email, scheduling appointments or playing games, but they're typically unable to print documents, download certain things and their user interface (how you see the icons and websites) appears different from a fully functional personal computer.

Tablets

Tablets are the newest version of personal computers (as of 2011). They're a combination of handheld computers and laptops. While their screens are larger than handhelds, they're not as large as desktops or laptops. Some tablets can print documents wirelessly, and some have a foldable keyboard, although their main feature is a large touchscreen monitor.

Super Computers

Super computers are incredibly fast computers, capable of processing millions of instructions per second. They're also typically very large, sometimes even filling entire rooms. They're not used in the home, but rather for complex and grand-scale projects like forecasting weather, launching space shuttles or completing quantum physics equations. Supercomputers typically consist of hundreds or thousands of processors that are linked through the LAN (local area network) connection. Having them all combined allows the supercomputer to become one massive calculating machine.

Tags: personal computers, desktop computers, computers also, computers they, computers They

Types Of Psp Consoles

Types of PSP Consoles

For years, Nintendo has had the market cornered on handheld gaming consoles. In 2004, Sony unveiled its attempt to dethrone the champion, the Sony PSP. Sony has shown remarkable support for the PSP: The company has modified it three times since its release.

PSP-1000

Otherwise known as the PSP-Phat, the 1000 series was the initial model. It utilized both flash memory and a drive bay for Sony's proprietary UMD format. The 1000 was a fairly weighty unit, and Sony set out to redesign the console to make it slimmer and sleeker.

PSP-2000

The result of the redesign of the PSP-1000 was the PSP-2000, otherwise known as the PSP-Slim. The slim was 33 percent lighter and 19 percent slimmer than the Phat. It also added an TV output and a brighter screen. Finally the system RAM was doubled from 32MB to 64MB. The PSP-Slim was released in 2007.

PSP-3000

In 2008, Sony announced the release of the PSP-3000, otherwise known as the PSP-Brite. Using the same body as the PSP-2000, the Brite offered a much brighter screen with better color fidelity and clarity.

PSP Go

At E3 2009, Sony announced a complete redesign of the PSP. Called the PSP Go, this new version would do away with the UMD completely and utilize downloadable games instead. The Go also added 16GB of internal flash memory and a housing that is 43 percent lighter than the Phat.

Pick Your Color

The PSP has also been released in numerous colors. The standard color is piano black, but it has also been released in silver, red, blue and purple.

Special Editions

The PSP has also been released in numerous special editions. These include a Star Wars edition with a screen printed image of Darth Vader, a God of War edition, a Hannah Montana edition and a Madden edition.

Tags: also been, also been released, been released, also added, been released numerous, brighter screen, flash memory

My Vizio Vp322 Hdtv10a Has No Power

The Vizio VP322 HDTV10A TV is a 32-inch LCD TV that has a 30,000-to-1 contrast ratio and 60,000 hours of screen life. Unlike some TV's, the VP322 features a detachable power cable instead of a built-in power cable, which can be as problematic as it is convenient, as you can accidentally unplug it, giving the appearance of a power problem. More severe power problems can be the result of physical or electrical damage, faulty equipment or outlet issues.

AC Outlet

If the Vizio (vizio.com) VP322 HDTV10A TV is connected directly to an AC outlet, disconnect the power cable from the outlet. Plug the power cable associated with a device that you know works in to that outlet. If the device works, proceed to the other sections to troubleshoot other aspects of the TV; if the device doesn't work, try resetting the circuit breaker associated with that outlet to see if the breaker may have been tripped or turned off. If resetting the breaker doesn't work, the problem may be with the outlet. Remove the outlet from the wall and check to make sure all of the wires are appropriately connected. If the wires are properly connected, you may need a new outlet.

Power Strip

If your Vizio VP322 HDTV10A TV is connected to a power strip, disconnect some of the other devices connected to the power strip and reset the device. If the TV still won't turn on, try plugging the TV directly into the AC outlet. If the TV works, the power strip may be defective and should be replaced.

Power Cable

Check that the Vizio TV's power cable is firmly connected to the back of the TV. If the power cable is frayed or damaged, the cable may not function correctly and could be the source of the problem. Replacement three-prong power cables can be purchased from most stores that sell TVs and accessories and are also available from Vizio directly. As of October 2011, Vizio replacement power cables were available on Vizio's website for $10.

Power Supply

The worst-case scenario is that the TV's power supply no longer works. The power supply could be physically damaged, for example if the TV was dropped, faulty, or the TV could have been hit by a power surge as a result of an electrical event, such as a lightning strike. A replacement power supply for the Vizio VP322 HDTV10A TV isn't directly available from Vizio but can be purchased through third-party vendors online. Contact Vizio technical support to find out if your TV is still under warranty and whether or not what caused the damage is covered. You may be able to return the TV to Vizio and have the power supply replaced for free.

Tags: power cable, VP322 HDTV10A, power supply, associated with, available from, available from Vizio, connected power

The Difference Between Sata1 And Sata2

Serial ATA refers to a type of hard disk drive interface.

SATA stands for serial advanced technology attachment. SATA was introduced in 2002 as the standard for hard disk drives in personal computers. SATA II is the name applied to the newer, faster SATA interface introduced later the same year.

Misnomer

SATA II was not the original name for the newer SATA interface; it was the name of the committee that developed the technology. However, the name has since become associated with the technology itself.

Speed

The original SATA devices have a standard data transfer speed of 1,500 megabits per second. The effective clock speed of the typical SATA device is 150 megabytes per second, therefore, these hard drives are known as SATA-150. SATA II devices feature a higher clock speed of 300 megabytes per second. SATA drives capable of 300 MB/s are known as SATA-300 devices. Not all SATA-300 drives are SATA II. In order to be classified as SATA II, the drive must have Native Command Queuing capabilities.

Native Command Queuing

SATA hard drives handle multiple commands by processing them in the order in which the commands are received. Unfortunately, processing the commands in order is not always the most efficient way to proceed. NCQ, or Native Command Queuing, allows a SATA II drive to re-order commands in order to execute them in the most efficient order possible. NCQ results in improved disk and system performance.

Port Multiplier

The port multiplier feature of SATA II drives allows up to 15 disks to be connected on a single SATA channel. This feature, while introduced as a SATA II component, is backward compatible with SATA devices. However, the slower speed of the SATA drives could potentially lead to problems with connecting multiple devices.

Hot Plug

SATA II devices have "hot plug" capabilities. This means that they can be added and removed without shutting down the system. The earlier SATA devices did not have this capability.

Click Connect and eSATA

The original SATA drives were intended for internal use only. The connections were often loose. SATA II devices have a Click Connect feature, which means you should hear a click when the device is firmly seated. Therefore, SATA II drives can be more securely attached, allowing for external SATA II or eSATA drives to be attached. The eSATA devices can be attached by a cord of up to 2 meters long. More recently, an xSATA specification was added that allows for an external drive to be connected with a cord up to 8 meters long.

Staggered Spin-Up

With the original SATA drives, multiple drives had to be powered up at the same time, causing a severe drain on the system's resources. SATA II drives are capable of staggered spin-up, meaning the devices can be powered up separately, thus avoiding potential system drain.

Link Power Management

SATA II also features Link Power Management, which lets the system power the hard drive in one of three ways: active, partial or slumber state. This power management system allows the computer to conserve power, which is particularly helpful for mobile computing.

Tags: SATA drives, SATA devices, devices have, SATA devices have, Command Queuing