Buying a New Computer

12/31/2008

Someone recently asked me “I teach senior citizens in a community based free computer lab. They often ask what to look for when buying a computer, what software they need for email, basic Internet usage, word processing, etc. Many are on a limited budget. What would you suggest they need as a minimum?”

Recommendations For a New Computer

The good news is that computer prices have dropped a lot over the past few years, and the computing power you get for your money is going up! I don’t recommend used computers for anyone, because the rate of change of computer technology will render most systems nearly obsolete within three years. If you’re a computer novice, wondering what kind of computer, monitor, hard drive, memory, and operating system to get… here’s some advice to get you rolling.

Windows or Mac?

You may have friends, relatives or neighbors trying to pull you into the “Windows vs. Mac” holy wars. In my opinion, the choice of operating system really doesn’t matter. From a beginner’s perspective, each has point & click interfaces that are pretty easy to use. Both will take you to the same Internet, and enable you to send and receive email. Both offer word processing, and the documents they create are interchangeable. Because Windows-based computers make up 90% of the market, they are cheaper. It’s the law of supply and demand in operation. And in some areas, it may be hard to find technical or repair support for Apple Macintosh computers. So if you’re budget-minded, and you don’t have any friends willing to help you with Mac issues, I suggest you go with a Windows-based PC.

A good entry-level computer with monitor can be purchased for under $400, and sometimes you even get a printer in the deal. So what should a newbie look for in terms of speed, monitor, memory and hard drive specs? It doesn’t have to be all that confusing…

What about Horsepower?

The CPU (central processing unit, or “processor” for short) is the brain of your computer. In general, the faster the better. Processor speeds are measured in gigahertz (GHz) and as of this writing, the fastest models available operate at about 4 GHz. Entry-level machines start at about 1.5 GHz and are more than adequate for web surfing, email and word processing. If you see a computer with a processor that has a speed specified in megahertz (MHz), steer clear — these are older models.

Thanks for the Memory

The next decision you have to make is how much RAM memory you need. Don’t confuse RAM with hard drive (file storage) space. RAM is the temporary working memory that your computer uses to perform calculations and manipulate files. When you open a document, it is copied from the hard drive into RAM. As you and your word processor work on the file, the modified copy exists only in RAM. When you save the file, it is copied from RAM back to the hard drive, or permanent storage. And as with CPU power, the more RAM you have, the better your computer will perform. I recommend you have a minimum 256 megabytes (MB) of RAM, but with 512 MB you’ll notice better performance.

Hard (Drive) Decisions

The hard drive is your permanent file storage. All of your personal files, such as word processor documents, photos, music, and emails are stored here, in addition to software packages and the operating system. Most new PC’s come with a hard drive that’s 40 gigabytes (GB) or larger. I recommend you start with a hard drive of 80 GB or more, if you plan to keep lots of photos or music on your computer.

Go For a Large Monitor

Here’s the formula: Larger Monitor = Less Eyestrain and Less Scrolling. I recommend a 17-inch monitor, or even a 19-inch if you don’t mind spending a bit more. Don’t worry about brand names here, they’re all pretty much the same. Stay away from 14 or 15-inch monitors, they’re just too small to be practical.

What About Software?

Most of the software you need will come pre-installed on your new PC. Windows comes with Internet Explorer (for web browsing) and Outlook Express (for email). Many PC systems include a word processor, such as Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, or OpenOffice. If your computer doesn’t come with any of these, I suggest you purchase Microsoft Works, which will give you MS Word, a spreadsheet similar to MS Excel, and other useful programs.

Look for a computer that comes with anti-virus software pre-installed. If yours doesn’t come with any anti-virus package, check with your Internet service provider to see if they offer anything for free. Failing that, you can download the free AVG package.

Summary

So in a nutshell, here are my recommendations:

  • Look for a Windows XP-based PC with monitor for around $400
  • Processor: 1.5 GHz or better
  • RAM memory: 256 MB or better
  • Hard Drive: 80 GB or better
  • Monitor: 17-inch or larger
  • Software: Microsoft Works and AVG anti-virus

Where to Buy?

Look at your local computer store first, they may have some good deals and offer local support. Office supply and electronics stores such as Staples, Office Depot, and Best Buy are good options to explore too. If you’re comfortable buying online, check out the Dell.com or Gateway.com offerings.

BOB RANKIN …is a tech writer and computer programmer who enjoys exploring the Internet and sharing the fruit of his experience with others. His work has appeared in ComputerWorld, NetGuide, and NY Newsday. Bob is publisher of the Internet TOURBUS newsletter, author of several computer books, and creator of the LowfatLinux.com website. For more helpful articles and free tech support, visit http://www.AskBobRankin.com

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Remanufactured Toner Cartridges vs. OEM (original manufacturer) Cartridges

12/29/2008

I have worked in the toner industry for over six years, and in that time have seen a good deal of change within the industry. The remanufacturing industry began as a drill and fill operation. Components were not changed; the cartridge was cleaned and refilled with toner. This led to poor print quality, defects, and cartridges that leaked toner into machines. Some companies continue with these practices today, but most have made a legitimate effort at selling a quality product.

Quality remanufactured toner cartridges are now available. Remanufactured toner cartridges can actually exceed OEM quality and yield. Extensive testing and R&D have enabled this industry to produce cartridges that will not only save the customer money, but also provide a better product.

As the customer, what should you ask potential vendors about their remanufactured cartridges?

1. What yield and density did the cartridges achieve in testing?

The yield is the amount of pages the cartridge produces before running out of toner. Make sure that the testing is performed at 5% page coverage. This is the industry standard. You can ask if they used a toner head, this is the best way to achieve 5% page coverage. Be careful with companies that just give you the OEM yield, they may not have actually done any testing.

The density measures how dark the text is. The density is usually between 1.3 and 1.6. Ask how many cartridges they test to achieve their numbers. Testing one cartridge does not give an accurate measurement. Also, ask how often they test their toner/drum combinations. Suppliers change toner qualities and continued testing is important to ensure quality.

2. Does the company change any components?

Ask if the company changes the drum, wiper blade and mag roller. These components are all very important to print quality. Some lower yield cartridges do not need to have their drums changed if they are properly tested, but anything over 4,000 pages should, at least, receive a new drum.

3. Does the company use a universal toner for all printers within a manufacturer?

Some suppliers try to save money by using one toner per printer model, i.e. one toner for all HP cartridges. This may not effect print quality, but it will effect yield. Each model of printer has different characteristics, which means different toners. An example of differing characteristics is the fusing temperature of the printers.

4. Are all of the companies cartridges post tested?

Some suppliers do not want to invest in all the printers, or do not do enough volume to make this affordable. This is the most important step. These cartridges have to be rebuilt by hand, which introduces human error. Forgetting one step can cause failures that can only be picked up in post-testing.

5. Does the company replace the label on the cartridge?

Some companies leave the OEM label on their cartridges; this is a copyright infringement. Other companies do not have any labels on their cartridges. This is legal, but can be confusing if you have different model printers. See if the company replaces the label with a new descriptive label, which should have the machine that the cartridge goes to on it.

Be careful of any company that will not provide you with this information. Many companies still do not have proper testing methods because of the cost. Also, beware of inexpensive cartridges. In the long run these will probably cost more, due to failures and poor print quality. Being informed is the best way to insure that you are getting the most for your money. Companies that supply a quality product will not hesitate to answer any questions you have. Companies that refuse to answer or give someone the proverbial run round probably do not have the answers. Good luck and I hope that this article can help answer your questions and save you some money.

Donald Broda

Senior Production Specialist

donald@brtoner.com

www.brtoner.com

Donald Broda has worked in the laser printer industry since 1999. In that time he has been involved in remanufacturing toner cartridges, quality control, and service of Hewlett Packard Laser Printers. Donald is now the senior production and service specialist at http://www.brtoner.com

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Getting Acquainted with Notebook Computers

Not so long ago notebook computers were expensive, heavy and reserved for a small portion of computer users, no longer. Today’s notebooks are lighter, less expensive and can be as fully featured as their stuck on your desk counterparts. A little knowledge can be helpful if you are considering making the leap to the convenience of a portable computer.

What are your computer needs? Notebook computers, sometimes referred to as laptop computers, just like desktop computers can be configured for a variety of purposes. Will you be using your notebook primarily for business? If so, are you heavily into word processing or spreadsheets or is your work directed toward graphics? Do you need to be connected to the internet for research and/or communication? Maybe you want a notebook mainly to enjoy games or movies? Make an inventory of your computer use priorities, such a list will help you determine which notebook computer is right for you.

Once you have ascertained what you want out of a notebook computer it’s time to make a list of the options your machine will need.

* Processors and RAM - A 20 gigabyte hard drive and an Intel Pentium Mobile processor with 2.8 gigahertz of speed will handle the needs of most computer users quite well. Gamers will need at least 526 megabytes of RAM. If you will be opening large files or having several files open at once you might want to consider a full gig of RAM.

* Screen size - A 13 inch screen with a resolution of 1024 x 768 should do the trick for most notebook computer users. Notebook users who are mainly interested in gaming or movie watching or professionals using graphics programs will probably want as large a screen as possible and may want to add a graphics card.

* Weight - If you are on the go, constantly in and out of your vehicle or on and off a plane and always carrying your computer an ultra light notebook computer may be best for you. Ultra lights can be pricey and you may have to give up a few features or settle for a smaller screen. Standard laptops weighing in at four to five pounds are more moderately priced and can have larger screens and more options.

* Ports, drives and bays - Portability and storage will all be enhanced by choosing a notebook computer with at least two ports. USB and Ethernet are pretty much essential. Expansion bays for CD-ROMS, DVDs and an extra battery should also be considered.

* Keyboard - The keyboard on a notebook computer can be confusing, even downright annoying, for someone used to any of the standard desktop computer configurations. Most laptop keyboards will be smaller and have the mouse integrated into the center. Learning to operate a mouse with your index finger can be exasperating. Look into buying an external mouse as well.

* Battery - Finding out your battery is dead when you’re in your seat on the airplane renders the most expensive notebook computer worthless. Investing in a good Lithium Ion battery is worth the extra cost. Don’t forget the more hardware and software you have up and running the shorter your battery’s life will be.

Finally, while online notebook computer shopping certainly takes some of the hassle out of buying, nothing beats a hands-on demonstration. Comparison shop a few models via the internet then test drive them at your local computer dealer. Rest the notebook computer on your lap after it has been running for at least twenty minutes. Is it comfortable or does it run hot? Type in the old standby “quick brown fox” sentence to see how the keyboard feels to your fingers. Look at the screen from a variety of angles. Open the software programs you use the most. Do they openly quickly and smoothly?

Notebook computers can be handy tools which offer solutions for both work and play. However, be sure to take the time to explore your needs and the solutions that a notebook computer can supply before making the purchase plunge.

Christopher M. Luck has an extensive background in working exclusively with notebook computers and is now offering his free notebook computer secrets to the public. If you are at all interested in Christopher’s computer advice, tips, or secrets, you can visit his computer blog

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Digital Camera Prints - Getting the Most for Your Money

Digital cameras have really taken off in popularity in recent years. It’s not uncommon anymore to see several people at an event with a digital camera. Here are some things to keep in mind when getting your digital camera prints converted into keepsakes.

Digital Camera Print - Where should you go?

Owning your own photo quality printer is definitely the fastest option. There are even people who take a small portable inkjet printer with them and make prints on the road.

Is it cheaper to print you own Digital Camera Print?

The large chains have jumped into this fray in a BIG way. Wal-Mart, Blacks, Business Depot, and many others. With all this competition comes low pricing. A typical 4×6 print from a big chain is cheaper than the retail cost of the do-it-yourself paper that the same chain sells in their photography center. And at home you still have to pay for the ink!

Keep the following in mind…

Low digital print price. All the major players have priced their 4×6 size very competitively. The larger sizes though, like 5×7 or 8×10, are usually higher in cost than what you can do at home.

Digital Photo Drop Off. Can you upload your digital pictures to the photo print company via the internet which is very convenient or do you have to deliver them on a CD?

Photo Print Delivery. Does your photo lab let you pick them up in the store, or do you have to wait for the post office or a courier? Picking them up at the store should be a no-cost option. If you can pick them up, make sure the location easy to get in and out of.

How fast can you get your digital photos? One photo lab has a reputation of having most orders ready in one business day. Another is a bit cheaper, but takes a week.

Digital Photo Quality. You may have to talk to relatives, friends, and co-workers about this one. Find others who have already tried various printers. One photo lab’s web site states that they will not print a picture with too low a resolution (nothing under 150 DPI allowed). This can be inconvenient, but assures you of a quality print.

Doing your homework ahead of time can ensure that you will get the best digital prints and the best prices so that you get maximum enjoyment out of your digital camera.

EzineArticles Expert Author Joe Duchesne

Joe Duchesne is the webmaster for Gotocompare.com a computer hardware site that includes good information about Digital Cameras and lots of other hardware.

Reprint freely as long as you keep this resource box intact including a live keyword rich link back to Gotocompare.com

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Laptop Computer Sales

When purchasing a computer online, there are some helpful tips that you should consider. The first is obviously where online should you go to make a purchase. It is wise not to buy computers from online discount stores, swap meets or online auctions. They may be cheaper, but you really have no guarantee that you’re getting quality for your money. Remember, if the price sounds too good to be true - it usually is not.

If you are in the market for a laptop computer, there are some important considerations that will make your purchase a satisfying experience. One of the most important considerations is the battery power. Laptops are usually used for travel - either on the road on in the air. You need to know how long the battery will last. Ask what the standard battery usage life is when using your computer in all power modes. Some manufacturers will try to dupe you by giving usage time for the lowest possible settings.

Another important consideration is the portable computer’s display. Make sure that it is large enough to suit your needs. The smaller the screen, the cheaper the computer will sell for; however, when traveling you should have a laptop with at least 12″ or larger screen.

You also need to think about the hard drive in the laptop you are considering. A standard computer hard drive will hold all of your files and information. If the drive fills up too quickly, you’ll need to add an additional drive. Therefore, you should always look for a drive that is large enough and has plenty of memory so that you will not run out of space.

Other considerations that are relevant in shopping for a laptop are the modem and network card. Make sure that a modem is included with your purchase, and if a network card is required, make sure that it is included as well.

Finally, when purchasing your laptop from a manufacturer, remember that they all have good points and bad points. The most important facts to consider when choosing a manufacturer is that you make sure that you get proper documentation. Meaning, information on how to use the machine, what comes with the computer, whether or not the computer can be upgraded in the future, etc. If the documentation is available over the Internet, make sure you read it closely. Finally, read the warranty. Make sure you know how long is is for, and if it covers both hardware and software.

Computer Sales provides detailed information on Computer Sales, Online Computer Sales, Laptop Computer Sales, Computer Hardware Sales and more. Computer Sales is affiliated with Computer Projector Rentals.

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Buy Dishwashers Online

12/28/2008

If you should be surveying the market for the best price on Dishwashers, looking on the world wide web can be a fantastic way to make sure you conserve cherished time & cash. If you’re tired of looking all around retail shop after high street retail shop searching for your new dishwasher then why don’t you get to your computer and get online and commence shopping.

You really should consistently acquire your dishwasher from shops you really trust, but when you are faced with some strange logo’s on-line choosing will be problematic. A great approach to stave off utilising uncertain options is to shop with web options which additionally own a prevalent high-street presence. You really should additionally be sure to extensively scan the terms & conditions of all the sites you are mulling over obtaining your dishwasher from.

Yet another tactic to tell apart a reputable web store When you are surveying the marketplace for quality dishwashers is to be sure to find out whether the retailer own a dispassionate and elucidative shoppers handbook. Doing this will probably of course bring to the forefront some issues you could not have thought of if you were just shopping on your own. The aforementioned can include; power usage, extra features and dryer capacity among other considerations. Don’t squander your time looking for good value dishwashers on inferior websites.

Beware of hidden costs - value added tax and delivery charges which are tacked on at the payment stage will often transform that first superb price that you found for your dishwasher into something wholly unremarkable.

a large range of on-line retailers are also quicker than others - if the speed at which you obtain your dishwasher is simply not a problem then this should really not bother you that much. But, if you’d rather not be manually washing the pots and pans over Christmas then you will wish to pick a store who gives you guaranteed home-delivery times.

Dishwashers can often look the business when they are sat in a display room or on a site but wind up disappointed when they reaches your families home. So be certain to check the return policy of the web-site you are ordering from.

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DVR’s

12/27/2008

DVR is a term heard quite frequently these days. What exactly is DVR? DVR stands for digital video recording. Compared to conventionally used devices like tape recorders, VCRs, or time lapse recorders, the DVR is entirely digital and provides many features that are required for high quality data storage and retrieval. It is no wonder that this technology has found many applications in various fields.

Instead of recording data on tapes, DVRs convert data into MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 format and stores it on a hard disk. A typical DVR consists of a device that stores data that forms the hardware and software in the form of a service that provides programming information and the ability to encode varying data streams derived from single or diverse input devices.

DVR has touched many fields including television, surveillance and monitoring, motion pictures and logistics to name a few. DVRs are commonly used in television to pause a live TV show, revert back a few seconds for an instant replay. It even lets you skip thorough unwanted commercials. In these cases, a DVR records directly to a hard disk drive.

The advantage of DVR is storage and retrieval. Images, motion pictures and related data are converted into digital format and stored. The retrieval is quite easy and there is no loss of quality or data. There are essentially two types of DVRs. One is platform dependent like the ones that use personal computers. A variant of this is platform independent that are commonly referred to as stand alone DVRs. The former gets data from a device such as a camera and then handles the information and passes it on to the storage device located on the PC.

Stand-alone DVR is an all in one system consisting of a cabinet and vital sub devices such as circuit boards, power supply, CPU and all DVR related components. Usually, one board encompasses all this. The software is embedded inside an integrated circuit chip. Stand-alone systems are less complicated and are quite easy to use. The hardware-software configuration ensures optimal performance and eliminates the possibility of conflict between hardware and software.

Platform based DVRs often come with more advanced features and can be upgraded, and\or modified. As add on devices can be changed, DVRs can deliver customized performance depending on the environment. These devices are often used in the banking, retail and transport sectors among others. However, due to the addition of hardware, device conflicts can arise adversely affecting the whole system.

DVRs are also available to enhance your TV viewing pleasure. These DVRs allow you to record up to 4 programs simultaneously. One can also view up to two programs at a time. With this technology, one can pause a live broadcast, replay, sequence and even skip commercials. Unlike VCRs where the amount of programming that can be recorded is limited, a DVR can store up to 20 hours or more of television programming depending on the storage capacity.

DVR has become a mini revolution. In homes, people are now controlling what they view. In offices, storage of thousands of hours of digital high quality surveillance data is at hand and faster data acquisition, transfer and retrieval. In the future, DVR will employ many new people, and many new areas including monitoring pollution levels, weather watch, etc. will be explored.

DVR provides detailed information about DVR, DVR reviews, DVR cards, DVR software and more. DVR is the sister site of CD Copier Software.

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Ergonomic Products 101

12/26/2008

Human beings are scaling new heights day by day. Markets are becoming more and more complex and competitive. Companies launch new products, market them, but even then are not sure if their product will match the taste, need and pocket of the consumer. This is because numerous brands are associated with a single commodity. Some companies try to win the consumer’s heart via a low price while a few others offer an impeccable quality at significantly good amount. But at the end of the day what matters to the consumer is how the products minimizes the labor, enhances the work and its durability. This article will shed light on some of the eminent and world’s top quality products called ‘Ergo Products’. There are a wide variety of ergo products. They range from keyboards, mice, armchairs to keyboard stickers, footrests, foot switches etc. The ergo products one amongst the largely used ones nowadays . The reason being their consumer friendly nature and their troubleshooting strategy.

1. The first and foremost widely used ergo product besides many others is the ergo keyboard. These keyboards come in different shapes, sizes and colors. For instance there are Ergo Flex Keyboards, Comfort Track 35 PM, Evolution Desktop, Pace Keyboard and so forth. These keyboards provide different advantages and come in varying but affordable price range.

The main and basic advantage of the ergo keyboards is that they are designed in such a fashion that they reduce the threat of various problems that may afflict those who work on online for hours together. They are made keeping in mind the excess strain on user’s arms and hands while working. Quite often the extra exertion results in chronic disorders such as tennis elbow, tendinits and the like. These disorders are mainly read under the name of CTDs i.e. cumulative trauma disorders. It is not just the posture of the hands that is distorted but also the entire body that gets uncomfortable due to it.

So, the ergo keyboards are mainly concerned with safeguarding you against the musculoskeletal (MSD) ailments. The large list of ergo users have revealed that how these keyboards have enhanced their work proficiency and comfort. Their feather touch keys and other comforts make the work easy and stress free for the users.

2. Ergo products focus on the all round health of its users. This is made evident by the uniquely designed and convenient ergonomic chairs. Two most popular ergo chairs are the Salli Saddle Chair Classic and the Salli Saddle Chair Twin. Both these are at the same manageable price of $ 345. Some of the few of the many advantages of the ergonomic chairs are the -

* The height of these chairs can be adjusted according to that of the person seated on them. This enables the person to have the ground support even with a small height.

* The depth of seat can also be altered to allow shorter as well as taller people take the backrest support.

* The backrest height can also be adjusted as suitable to the user.

* There are facilities if accommodating the lumbar support to prevent the frequently occurring problem of flattening of lumbar spine.

* What more, even the height and width of the padded armrests can be modified to met the comfort of one’s shoulders and upper arms.

3. Last but not the least are the super beneficial ergonomic mice. There are again different kinds of these. The Graphical Tablet, Quill Mouse, Zero
Tension mouse and the Evoluent Vertical Mouse to name a few. The mice have the merit of giving total relax and minimum exertion to the user’s palm, fingers and forearms. With these ergonomic mice you can bid goodbye to the aching palms and tired fingers. A simple touch or clicking the button will do maximum of your work and will save you from the trouble of rotating the mice here and pressurizing your forearm.

This is not all for the ergonomic products. There are many others that have not been mentioned and perhaps cannot be enumerated in a single go. A lot of information is available online regarding them.
So waiting for what…go “ergo”..!

Mansi aggarwal writes about Ergonomic Products .

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How To Buy A Printer That Won’t Break The Bank

OK I confess I’ve bought at least 10 inkjet printers in the last 5 years and finally found one that I really like. I’m not going to mention the brand here but I will tell you what the must have features are for me.

After years of refilling HP-like inkjet cartridges where the Cyan, Magenta and Yellow tanks were all mixed together in one unit I decided to buy a printer that allowed you to change each color tank individually. Although a minor change this affected how much it cost to print a colored output page in a huge degree. I never liked the concept of having all of the colors in one cartridge to start with. Every time I went to replace an empty cartridge I wondered how much ink was left in the other two colored ink tanks. If you didn’t notice they were always a dark color making it impossible to tell how much was actually in the tank.

My new unit seems to use the Yellow cartridge (black aside) more than any other color which makes me curse the days where I envisioned myself throwing money in the toilet by only using half of the colored ink in a multi color ink jet cartridge. This backs up my initial thought process and confirmed all suspicions.

Since I’m a small business owner and penny pinching is always a must, I continuously test how much mileage that I get out of a cartridge. As you well know the little pop up window tells you when your cartridge is running low and it seems like it’s there to annoy you and serves no other purpose. Being the cheapo that I am I decided to ignore the warnings and bells and whistles that normally go off and run a cartridge to the end of its tank.

It was tense, a sense of childlike mischief came across my mental state. I was actually defying the printing gods by defying their warnings of certain doom, nefariously clicking the cancel on every warning message. Surely something spectacular would happen at the end of the life of this inkjet cartridge! I had gotten about a thousand messages warning me of the peril that was coming my way. I envisioned scenes from nuclear war footage and big things happening like the printer exploding or perhaps the printer cartridge police showing up at my house and arresting me for such gross disrespect for printer law. Whatever happened this would be BIG!

Well after running the cartridge for about a month I got a harmless message that the cartridge was now out. No big light show, no explosion no nothing, what a disappointment! Anyway, I installed a new cartridge, realigned the thing using the printing utility and was up and running in about five minutes.

The point of the whole ordeal was to figure out how many more print jobs that I could do without changing the ink. Thus, saving me some extra cash. Well a month of printing is nothing to scoff at and it ended up saving me around $5.00 by using the cartridge down to the last drop.

Will it work on your printer? I don’t know.. But you should check out the manual for your printer to ensure that you won’t damage it by running the cartridge dry.

But friend I choose to live life on the edge. =)

Alexis Allen is a self-described consumer advocate in the Home Electronics Industry. You can check out her latest articles on the cost of printing at http://www.cheap-toner-cartridges.com

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Mobile Phone Users in UK on Rise

12/25/2008

There are large number of network providers in UK. One of the most widely used network is Virgin Mobile serving to a large chunk of mobile phone users in UK. According to Virgin Mobile, their user number is increasing year after year. Compared to the earlier year, its number of customers has increased from 3.88 million to 4.35 million and it has gained 193,000 active users.Being the UK’s fifth-largest mobile operator and having more than five million customers, in the previous quarter, the average revenues rose to £123, from £121. The company operates on networks owned by airtime provider T-Mobile.

Despite the deal being backed by major shareholder Sir Richard, Virgin Mobile’s board rejected an £817m ($1.4bn) bid from cable operator NTL in December. The reason being the offer underrated the business.

To the existing offering of TV, fixed line phones and broadband, NTL hopes to add Virgin’s mobile phone facilities. It is hoped that a possible takeover may take place. According to Virgin, talks about it are continuing. After some discussions, the chief executive of Virgin Mobile said that they are going to make further announcements about a potential offer after their meeting with NTL. Their approach to focusing on high quality customers in the prepay segment has given a boost to their growth.

Nidhi
UK mobile phone directory UK

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