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USB 3.0 – SuperSpeed USB Finds Its Way

Back in November 2009 when the first consumer products to feature USB 3.0 were shipped, I wrote a post detailing the capabilities of USB 3.0. At the time of that post, USB 3.0 was still a brand new technology, and availability was limited. It wasn’t until the following year that USB 3.0 products started to really make their way into the consumer market. As of this year though, most major PC manufacturers have equipped their newest computers with USB 3.0 technology. In spite of this, many computer users are only now just starting to get acquainted with USB 3.0.

What is USB 3.0 and How Can It Help You?

USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. USB connectors have become the most common type of device connectors in computing and can be used to attach a wide range of peripherals to your computer including mice, keyboards, monitors, mobile devices, external hard drives, digital cameras, external sound cards, flash drives, and more. USB technology makes it easy to upgrade the capabilities of your PC or laptop or transfer files. The previous incarnation of USB which most people are familiar with is USB 2.0. USB 2.0 came out in 2000 and allowed a maximum data transfer rate of 480 mbps.

USB 3 is a major revision and has been dubbed the “SuperSpeed USB” by its manufacturers, Hewlett-Packard, NEC, Microsoft, Intel and Agere Systems. There’s a good reason for this moniker: USB3 is capable of transferring data at a maximum rate of 4.8 Gbps. That’s a tenfold increase over the capabilities of USB 2.0! Not only is the speed of USB 3.0 incredible, but it boasts some other great features as well. Here’s an overview of USB 3’s capabilities and what you need to run this new technology:

Dual-bus architecture enables backward compatibility and forward compatibility. You can run USB 3 devices even if your computer is only equipped with USB 2.0 ports. You can also still use your USB 2.0 devices if you have USB 3.0 ports. If there is a 2.0 port or device in use though, you’ll only get the 2.0 transfer rates.
You do need a USB 3.0 compatible cable to get the maximum transfer rate of 4.8 Gbps
You do need the right drivers to run USB 3.0 technology as well; Windows 7 didn’t include these drivers in the initial release, but they have since been released and can be downloaded through Windows Update. Windows 8 will include inbuilt support.
USB 3.0 can be used to power peripheral devices at a much higher level than USB 2.0. Your battery powered devices will charge faster.
USB 3.0 is also more energy efficient; the technology uses less power when that power isn’t needed.

Benefits of USB 3

Why is all this supremely useful to you? Just think of tedious tasks like transferring files between your mobile device and your PC, or backing up files from your PC onto your external hard drive. Using USB 3.0 means you can transfer most music files instantly, and even full length films can be transferred in under two minutes. Time to reformat your computer?

With USB 3 and an external hard drive, backing up your computer’s files will only take about a tenth as long as it used to. Ten-hour backup tasks can be completed in just one hour!

With all this power and speed, SuperSpeed USB 3.0 technology is really taking off right now, even though many consumers are still just learning about it. Most new PCs are already equipped with the ports, and all that’s needed to use them is a Windows Update upgrade.

Adding USB 3.0 Ports

If you don’t have a USB 3.0 port (and assuming you didn’t purchase your computer fairly recently, you probably don’t) but want to enjoy USB SuperSpeed, there’s no need to buy a brand new computer—there are card USB adapters which you can purchase right now to add USB 3.0 ports to your old computer. This is necessary if you want to enjoy the high transfer rates of USB 3.0, but remember that you can still use USB 3.0 devices even if you don’t have USB 3.0 ports. Most of these adapters are modestly priced between $15.00-$30.00.

So now’s the time to upgrade—regardless of how old your PC is, you too can enjoy USB 3.0 technology!

Upgrade to Windows 7 – Nine Reasons to Make the Switch

By Mike McEvoy

The Windows 7 upgrade from Windows XP has been a hot topic for PC owners since Windows 7 burst onto the scene in August, 2009. It surpassed the seventh Harry Potter book as the highest-grossing pre-order in Amazon.com’s history and has steadily increased its number of users over the following two years.

By July, 2011, Windows 7 held over 37% market share. Conversely the numbers of Windows XP users have been steadily declining during the same time period, going from over 70% to under 43% market share.

If you are still running Windows XP (or the dreaded Windows Vista OS) here are nine reasons you should consider making the upgrade to Windows 7:

1. Performance – Windows 7 is optimized for superior performance. The latest version of Windows 7 was pitted against XP in 25 speed benchmark tests. Some of these tests included moving files, extracting files, running various software, booting up, and shutting down. Windows 7 came out ahead in 24 of those tests.

File search times have been vastly accelerated. Windows 7 regularly indexes hard drive files during idle time, resulting in lightning-fast searches. Files display instantly as you type the search terms. All results are grouped by file type.

Display improvements include color calibration, improved support for external monitors, and high DPI support.

2. Ease of Use – Microsoft redesigned the interface to be more streamlined and use highly efficient shortcuts. Taskbar buttons are larger and can be reordered. Right-click a taskbar icon to display past file history for quick access. Hover over an icon to preview an open file.

3. Stability – Windows 7 is more stable than XP. Using Windows XP, you’ve probably experienced the infamous “Blue Screen of Death” (BSOD) more often than you’d care to remember. With Windows 7, the BSOD has become quite rare.

Windows 7 substantially improves the system restore feature. It’s much more reliable and effective than that of XP. If your system experiences problems with newly installed software or device drivers, it’s a simple matter to return your PC’s configuration to a previous point in time.

4. Security – Windows 7 is more secure than Windows XP. The new security Action Center gives you a central location to manage all security and system backup features. It gives you critical security messages when problems arise.

The User Account Control Slider lets you set your level of security instantly. A new feature called Bitlocker can encrypt your hard drive or USB device to prevent hackers from gaining access to your personal information.

5. Maintenance – Windows 7 makes it easier to perform maintenance tasks. File defragmentation occurs automatically in the background, without the need to run DEFRAG. Backup and restore functions are easily accessible from the security Action Center.

Troubleshooting functions, including diagnostic tools and wizards, are collected in one place. These automate the troubleshooting process and give you feedback on possible solutions.

6. Connecting – Windows 7 makes it easier to connect to new devices and networks. New devices are automatically detected and installed. Windows 7 searches the Internet and finds necessary drivers for you. XP kinda, sorta has this ability, but Windows 7 does it much more effectively.

The networking HomeGroup functionality lets you easily connect computers on your home network for easy file sharing and printing.

7. Useful Utilities – The Windows 7 upgrade has a large number of new, useful utilities that weren’t included with Windows XP. Effective speech recognition software is built in. With it you can perform voice dictation, navigate web pages, and easily create and send emails without use of the keyboard.

Windows Media Player has been overhauled and includes new library functions and now playing views. You can now paste sticky notes on your desktop in a variety of colors and fonts. The calculator also went through a considerable redesign and now performs unit conversion, retains your calculation history, and has a variety of other new features.

Parental controls allow parents to help keep their children safe when online by setting what content the children can view. Kids’ time spent on the computer can also be controlled and limited.

8. Age of Windows XP – Windows XP was released in 2001 and has become outdated. Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue XP support in 2014. Windows 7 upgrade can run the newest software, including Internet Explorer 9 (XP cannot run IE9). Technology evolves rapidly. Don’t be left behind! Most older programs will run on Windows 7. XP compatibility mode is provided for those that won’t.

9. Ease of Updates – Windows 7 is much easier to update than XP. A “Windows Update” dialogue box provides you with thorough, step-by-step information as you perform updates.

These are some of the highlights where you can see that the Windows 7 upgrade offers numerous advantages over Windows XP. With today’s commercial software becoming more and more powerful, most of them require the more sophisticated Windows 7 operating system.

There are actual day-to-day benefits in the many convenient, time-saving features in Windows 7. Perhaps the two most impressive are the enhanced security and the stability. It just works, and it works much better than the 10 year old Windows XP. Upgrade to Windows 7 and start enjoying a smoother, less stressful computing experience. Check out the video below to see some additional information about the features of Windows 7.

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 Available – SP1

By Mike McEvoy

Microsoft recently began shipping Windows 7 Service Pack 1. Initially available through direct download, Microsoft is now including Windows 7 SP1 as part of the regular Windows Update service that automatically downloads and installs priority updates for Microsoft products. Windows 7 SP1 is available for all editions of Windows 7 including Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate.

Inside Windows 7 Service Pack 1

Released to the general public on February 22, 2011, Windows 7 SP1 is a rollup of security patches, minor bug fixes along with a few tweaks that improve existing features. In reality SP1 does not contain a huge number of changes for computers that have been downloading and installing the monthly updates that Microsoft sends out regularly. Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is a healthy dose of security fixes and minor updates rolled into a single installation package.

A notable fix in Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is the HDMI audio problem that some people have experienced. There have been a lot of reports about the loss of HDMI audio devices after rebooting a computer. Problems with printing when using the XPS Viewer have also been fixed.

Another fix included in SP1 is the way that Windows 7 restores folders after logging on. Prior to SP1, previous folders would be restored in a cascaded position based on the location of the most recently active folder.

That behavior changes in SP1 so that all folders are restored to their previous positions. For example, it is now possible to change the “Restore previous folders at logon” function that is governed by the Folder Options Explorer dialog.

How to Install Windows 7 SP1

There are two options for installing SP1: Download the pack directly from Microsoft or wait for Microsoft to download the service pack directly to your computer as part of the standard Windows Update process. For direct download the Service Pack comes in a file over 500MB in size. When installing through the Microsoft Update process the size of the Service Pack will vary depending on the Windows 7 updates that have previously been installed.

Using the Windows Update service is the recommended method for installing SP1. If you would like to download the service pack directly from Microsoft’s website you can follow this link: http://windows.microsoft.com/installwindows7sp1

Installation times may vary from 30 – 60 minutes on average depending on your computer’s performance. This was confirmed through several installations I have done. Aside from the time required installations have been smooth and error-free.

There was one exception where the Service Pack did not complete the installation process and Windows Update returned an error message. By rebooting and retrying the process everything completed without any problems.

SP1 is not actually essential item for installation. However, it is worth having for the fixes that it does supply. With SP1 installed you’ll know you have all previous Windows 7 security fixes and other updates installed. Plus, at some point you may need SP1 installed to receive additional future updates.

Considerations Prior to Installation of Windows 7 Service Pack 1

As with the installation of any major operating system or software component it is encouraged to close all applications prior to installation. Rebooting the computer and turning off any antivirus programs prior to installing the SP may also be beneficial. You will be prompted to restart your computer after the service pack installation is complete.
Install all other available updates before installing SP1 including the KB2454826 Update. This Update will automatically be installed when you install the service pack by using Windows Update. However, Windows Update KB2454826 is not automatically installed when you install the service pack from the Microsoft Download Center.
Scan your computer for malware by using antivirus/antimalware software that is up to date.
If you are using a portable computer, make sure that you connect your power adapter to an electrical outlet prior to installation of the Service Pack. Do not unplug or restart the computer during the installation.
Make sure that you save your work and close all open programs before you begin the installation process.

This first Windows 7 Service Pack was released approximately 16 months following the official release of Windows 7 in October 2009. This is 5 months longer than it took Microsoft to release the first service pack for Windows XP back in September 2002.

Windows 7 Home Premium Family Pack Savings

By Mike McEvoy

Microsoft originally launched Windows 7 in October 2009. At that time they offered a money-saving, special priced Windows 7 Home Premium Family Pack for 3 PCs for $149. This special Windows 7 pricing only lasted for a few months and was then discontinued. Recently, Microsoft re-launched the Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade Family Pack (3-User) special offer. This special upgrade pack includes the licenses to upgrade up to three PCs running either Windows XP or Windows Vista to the Windows 7 Home Premium version.

If you are considering upgrading more than one laptop or desktop computer Windows 7 Family Upgrade pack is a bargain. The price of $149 is actually not much more than the cost of a single Windows 7 license. In fact when Microsoft discontinued the original Windows 7 Family Pack for 3 PCs there were reports of some resellers selling the product for significantly more than its $149 list price since three separate Windows 7 licenses cost more than $400.

The Windows 7 Home Premium Family Pack upgrade product includes both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 7 Home Premium on DVD. While Microsoft also offers a Windows 7 Pro version for larger business environments, the Home Premium version works great for home users and most small businesses. For people who have been contemplating upgrading 2 or more Windows XP or Windows Vista computers this special priced offer might make it more feasible.

For more information on Windows 7 be sure to check out a couple of our previous posts on Microsoft’s latest operating system:

Windows 7 Release Insights
This includes a range of detailed information about Windows 7 along with a number of links to additional articles on features, details and opinions of the operating system.

Windows 7 – Eight Reasons You Will Want It
From the post: “Windows 7 is here and there are plenty of new and useful aspects to Microsoft’s latest version of the Windows operating system family. While Windows 7 is not a revolutionary step, it is an impressive evolutionary step. It provides a significant number of reasons to upgrade your current Windows computer or, if your budget permits, to retire that five or six year old computer…”

Many people have several computers running throughout their house or small business. This Windows 7 Home Premium 3-license package is a great way to upgrade the operating system for a number of PCs for as little as $50 per PC.

Laptop Computers – Netbook Computers – 8 Key Differences

By Mike McEvoy

The key differences between netbook computers and laptop computers can seem rather blurry if you are not up to speed on portable computer technology. In the shifting world of computer technology how do you tell the difference between laptops and netbooks and decide which factors are most important to you? Is it size, weight, operating system, CPU, cost, battery life, or all of the above?

This article will explore 8 key differences between netbooks and laptops to assist in your portable computer shopping. Also be sure to check out my earlier posts Netbook Computer Primer and 7 Reasons Netbook Computers are Great for Students.

Where Netbooks and Laptops Differ

1. Screen size

A general rule of thumb for a netbook is screen size between 7 and approximately 10 inches. Laptop screen size will generally vary between 12 inches 17 inches. There are some exceptions to these common sizes as a few manufacturers have made netbook computers with screens as large as 11 inches and some ultra portable laptop computer have been made with screens as small as 11 inches. There are also some laptops with screens as large as 20 inches. However at that size the concept of portability vanishes due to the overall size and weight of the laptop (or is it a portable desktop?).

2. Weight

A key factor in laptop and netbook computer design is the relationship between size and weight. Netbooks are smaller than laptops and weigh less. An average weight for a netbook is between 2.5 and 3.0 pounds. Mainstream laptop computers will be in the 5 to 7 pound range. Some premium ultra portable laptops can weigh in as low as 3 to 4 pounds. Screen size also directly effects computer weight as a larger screen is heavier. Plus the larger screen requires a larger, heavier battery to power the screen.

3. Battery life

The battery life between chargings for laptop and netbook computers varies dramatically. Most netbooks promise a battery life between 5 and 10 hours. Some older models are still in the 3+ hours range with some newer models achieving a battery life of up to 14 hours between charging. Most laptops will deliver a battery life between 3 and 5 hours. However with recent technology advances some moderately priced laptops are offering battery life between 7 and 12 hours per charge.

4. CPU & Processing Power

If there is one area where the difference between netbook computers and laptops computers is clear it is in processing power. From all perspectives laptop computers have more processing power than netbooks.

The vast majority of netbooks use the Intel Atom NP450 CPU with earlier netbook models using an earlier version of the Atom. Laptops use more powerful CPUs including the Intel Core Duo, Core 2 Duo or, more recently, one of the Intel i3, i5 or i7 CPUs. Ultra low voltage versions of some of these CPUs are also used in some ultra light laptops. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) also produces CPUs that are commonly used in laptops including their Turion and Athlon CPU product lines.

5. Optical Drives (CD/DVD)

CD/DVD drives are another clear area of difference. Netbooks do not have an internal CD or DVD drive. You must buy an external drive or download all software from the Internet. You can buy an external CD/DVD drive that connects via the USB port and costs approximately $50.

A large majority of laptop computers include a built-in CD/DVD drive. Some ultra portable laptops do not have an internal drive but come with an external CD/DVD drive as standard equipment.

6. Price

The majority of netbooks are priced in the $275 to $400 range. Laptops can range from $400 at the very low end to over $2,000 for some ultra light systems and high powered gaming laptops. By their basic design laptop computers have more flexibility in the final configuration.

Another item to consider in any cost comparison is the fact that netbook computers do not come with a CD/DVD drive. An external CD/DVD drive will add $50 to the cost. Larger, extended life batteries are also available for many netbooks. Some models come with the more powerful batteries as standard equipment otherwise the longer-life battery will add $50 – $75 to the cost. So when adding in the cost of an external CD/DVD drive and an extended life battery your netbook could end up closer to the $375 – $450 price range.

7. Operating System

Most laptops are now shipping with Windows 7 Home Premium. Most netbook computers now ship with Windows 7 Starter Edition installed. The Starter Edition is similar to Home Premium although it cannot utilize the features of the Windows 7 Aero advanced graphical interface. Due to the lower processing power and the reduced graphics processing capabilities of netbooks the less demanding version of Windows 7 Starter Edition is a much better fit.

Some laptops are still available with Windows XP although they are mainly focused on business world. Laptops with Windows XP are available direct from manufacturers (Dell, Lenovo, etc.) or through corporate resellers. All laptops sold in retail stores include Windows 7.

8. Graphics Capabilities

As mentioned in the Operating System section above, netbooks have significantly less power for processing complex graphics. Laptops have a more powerful CPU than netbooks plus many laptops have an additional powerful graphics processor which assists in providing higher screen resolutions, enhanced video processing capabilities and the power to play computer games. A netbook is not the optimal solution for playing computer games or watching DVDs or videos.

The Differences Will Continue With Laptops and Netbooks

There are a number of gray areas when comparing netbook computers and laptop computers including weight and battery life. However, there are also a number of areas where there are very clear differences such as processing power, built-in CD/DVD drives, and cost.

For the sake of comparison I’ve followed the 90/10 rule and compared the 90% of mainstream laptop computers and netbook computers. If you look hard enough you could most likely find a few exceptions in each of the eight categories described above. However, as general rule and for most retail shopping and mainstream computers these comparisons should hold up quite well.