Computer Basics

How can I make my PC and Mac share files?

To share files between a Mac and a PC is very easy today. It didn't used to be, but now all you have to do is email files to each other. As long as they are standard files, like text, audio or even video files, the other person, no matter what his computer is, be it a Mac or a PC, will be able to open it.

How do I choose between a MAC and a PC?

To choose between a MAC and a PC is difficult as, because they share the same platform, they're the same. But for somebody who's never used a computer before, to start them off I'd recommend that they get a MAC because it is easier to use. All you have to do is plug the MAC in once you get it out of the box, and you're pretty much good to go. I personally think that there's a steeper learning curve to a PC, but if you get somebody to teach you, you will also pick it up eventually.

Should I buy an extended warranty for my computer?

If you've just bought a new computer sometimes the salesman will actually ask you if you want an extended warranty. If you've just spent a kajillion dollars buying that brand new system, your going to ask if you actually need it. If you're a person like me who knows how to fix their computers then you don't need an extended warranty, but if you're accident prone or you're in a house with a lot of children or a lot of animals, then I'd actually recommend buying that extra two or three year warranty on top of the warranty that comes with the computer. It's better to have an extended warranty and not need it than to need it and not have it.

What is a "mouse"?

A mouse is a pointing device that is connected to the computer, that helps you point your cursor around on the desktop.

What is "RAM" and how much do I need?

RAM is Random Access Memory. You need a lot of it. RAM is memory that comes with your computer. The standard today is 512, but the more the merrier. You can always upgrade to a gig of RAM if you really use a lot of photographs. It's always better to have more than less. What is a "hard drive" and how do I know what size is best for me?

Your hard drive is a storage device that comes with every computer. That's where you store your applications and your files. If you play with a lot of photographs, audio files or video, then you're going to want a bigger hard drive. Most computers have space for a second drive, so if you want you can always add more space. When you're getting a second hard drive, just remember that bigger is always better.

What is a "CPU"?

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, and both Macs and PCs have one. They're basically the brain of the computer; without one, your computer won't work. The new CPUs have what is called a dual core system, which basically tricks your computer into thinking its got two brains instead of just one, and just like as for storage, more is always better.

What is a "Gigabyte"?

A Gigabyte is a unit of measure that describes storage. For example, you could fit approximately 120 minutes of audio onto a gigabyte of storage space.

What is a "Terabyte"?

A terabyte is another unit of measure that describes storage. A terabyte is a thousand gigabytes. To give you an idea, it's a hundred and twenty minutes of audio onto one gigabyte, so if you're talking about one terabyte, imagine this: the entire library of Congress could fit into approximately five hundred terabytes.

What is "compression"?

Compression applied to files, just means that you're taking something that is bigger in size and scrunching it down so its smaller in size, so you use less storage space.

What is "Codec"?

Codec stands for compression/decompression. Codec usually applies to video files. The video on the web that you see is mostly comprised of three codecs: Xvid, DivX and flash video. All these are downloadable off the web for free.

What is "hardware"?

Hardware means the physical components of your computer. Hardware includes your computer itself, your monitor, your keyboard, your mouse, your printer, your scanners, your digital camera and the wires. Anything that you can attach is basically hardware.

What is "software"?

Software is what runs your computer. If you did not have any software on your computer, when you fired it up all you would see is a blank screen. The things that you need to listen to your audio, to watch your video or to play with your pictures: all that is software.

How do I choose between a laptop and desktop computer system?

If you're choosing between a laptop and a desktop computer, there are a couple of things you have to consider. First of all, what are you going to use the computer for? If you're going to be traveling a lot then obviously your choice is a laptop because they're just easier to cart around. However, some laptop models today are considered desktop replacements, and that's only because they weigh a ton. The other thing you have to take into consideration is the durability. Laptops, if you drop them, are really easy to brake, so bare that in mind when you're choosing between systems. Laptops generally tend to be more expensive than desktops, so if cost is a factor go with a desktop computer. Finally, desktops are easier to upgrade, so if you don't want to spend a gajillion dollars every two or three years, go with a desktop computer because it's a lot easier to upgrade the parts for pennies than it is to buy an entirely new system.

What is a "tablet PC"?

A tablet PC is essentially an entire computer that's shrunk down onto what looks like just a LCD screen. People whose professions involve a lot of mobility usually have tablet PCs, like doctors, engineers or architects, or anybody who needs to input a lot of information on the fly without using a keyboard.

What is the difference between a new and refurbished computer system?

If you're looking at the same model of computer and one's new and one's refurbished, what's the difference? "New" just means it's brand new, out of the box. It hasn't been touched by human hands. A refurbished computer, on the other hand, has been returned to the manufacturer because a part on it wasn't working. What they've done is they've replaced the part that wasn't working. They reboxed it and it's up for sale again. Should you buy a refurbished? Should you buy new? They're exactly the same because, often, the warranty is still good on either of them. If you're looking to save a little money, it's okay to buy a refurbished computer.