Keep Your Software Costs Low with Open Office Software

As a small business owner I am constantly pursuing the “bottom line”. It’s a simple formula, really. Just increase sales while decreasing expenses, right? Easier said than done I’m afraid. The fact is that most production costs like fuel, rent, internet access, insurance, etc, continue to rise and don’t show signs of slowing any time soon. That means I’ve got to be downright cagey in conserving every dime I can, where I can.

So, when I upgraded to a new computer I went with the most performance for the lowest cost. That meant no frills, especially where software is concerned. Manufacturers want an arm and a leg to pre-install software bundles on your new machine. Even if you’re a little more technologically savvy and purchase and install software yourself, Microsoft Office Standard is like four hundred bucks, and you still have anti-virus and other vital software to shell out for. What’s an entrepreneur to do?

I’m fortunate enough to know a few people who work in the tech sector and are a lot more knowledgeable than myself on the subject of personal computing. When I told one of my tech-head friends I was looking for a less expensive software solution he told me to check out Open Office software.

He sent me to this site where they have an Open Office software suite available for download, bundled with a free anti-virus suite! I tried it out and I’ve been very impressed with what I got for my dollar. The open office programs have all the same features as their Microsoft counterparts, as well as a few advantages unique to Open Office.

The bundle includes a word processor, a spreadsheet program, a database, a program for creating multi-media presentations, and a drawing program.

I haven’t got to spend a whole lot of time with the presentation program, Impress, but it interfaces nicely and seems to be able to create anything I will need for a great sales presentation. Draw, the graphics program, is great and creates artwork in bitmap, GIF, JPEG, and a couple other formats I’ve never even heard of. Most important to me though have been the word processor, called Write, and the spreadsheet, Calc.

Write has all the features, there’s nothing missing. It also has its own helpful options like auto correct and auto complete, and it can create documents in open document format, a file format developed by an industry consortium to be the new standard in compatibility. In addition it can read and edit my old Word documents, as well as create new ones. It can also create .pdf files.

Calc shares the same virtues as its word processing counterpart, with the abilities to read and write existing Excel docs. This is huge for me because almost all of my payroll, invoicing, and expense tracking are kept on custom made spreadsheets I built myself, and the ability to keep the data I have and continue my book keeping without starting over is crucial. I also love the natural language formula feature. It allows the creation of formulas using actual words like “sales-costs”. It’s really slick and saves me a ton of time.

Now if you’ve done your homework or have a background in computers you know that Open Office software is open source code software, meaning essentially that it’s free. So why pay for software that can be gotten for nothing? Well the answer lies in the extra features, bonus software and support provided in this Open Office suite. At under $50 dollars for the whole Open Office software bundle, the anti-virus suite alone makes it worth the cost. Also included is one whole year of free technical support, which is important for the less technically inclined, such as me.

Open Office is a Free Microsoft Office alternative but with a small fee you can get an entire Office Software Suite packaged with everything you need for your school or small business computing including an anti-virus program. Try http://www.OfficeSoftwareSuite.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_P._Thompson

Refilling Ink Cartridges Is Easier Than You Think

Refilling ink cartridges is now a relatively easy process that only takes some courage and practice to achieve consistent results. Many companies now sell refill kits that are bound to save you quite a bit of money in the long run. In addition, if you don’t want to go through all the hassles of refilling your own cartridges, you can now have them refilled for a fraction of the cost of a new cartridge.

One such company, Cartridge World, has locations in dozens of countries and has been in operation for nearly 20 years. Chances are, there is a location near you, so you won’t have to drive far to get a refilled cartridge. While they don’t actually refill your specific cartridge, you simply drop off your empty cartridge and buy a refilled cartridge in its place. The benefit of doing so, even if the cost is somewhat higher than refilling the cartridge yourself, is that they guarantee their products. If the cartridge does not perform as promised, you can return it within 90 days and have it either repaired, replaced, or your money refunded. Be sure to keep the receipt, however!

Another great location for refilling the cartridges is OfficeMax. Many of their stores now have ink refilling stations that make refilling much easier. Just bring in your cartridge and you can refill it right there and then for a portion of the price of a new cartridge. Staples and Office Depot so far haven’t followed suit, but hopefully they will offer the service to their customers in the future.

If you cannot find Cartridge World or OfficeMax around where you live, you can opt to buy remanufactured cartridges from a number of online companies. However, they too will not be as cheap as refilling the cartridge yourself. If you really want to start saving money, get a refill kit and do it yourself. It takes about 15 minutes to do if you haven’t done it before, but with practice you’ll be done in no time. The actual process is not as hard or messy as people tend to believe. The belief got started years ago when the refill kits were universal, so there was a high failure yet, and it persisted despite the changes in the way things are done.

Nowadays, you get a refill kit that is either specific to your cartridge or a few similar cartridges, so the instructions and the actual content of the kit is designed to make refilling your particular cartridge easy and painless. They all contain instructions that are attuned to your cartridge, so they are better sources of information than generic instructions found online. So, if you are considering refilling ink cartridges, now is the time to start saving money.

Want to discover how to find quality discount printer cartridges? Then make sure to visit http://www.findinkcartridges.com, a popular website that provides inkjet printer reviews, ratings and tips including information on recycle printer cartridges and the risks of refilling ink cartridges to your printer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Synder

LEDs in your contacts?

Researchers at the University of Washington in Seattle have developed a prototype contact lens that incorporates an imprinted electronic circuit and lights. The prototype is a step toward creating a form of bionic vision, the researchers say.

The researchers say the flexible lens is biologically safe and was worn by rabbits for up to 20 minutes with no adverse effects. Along with a circuit, the prototype contains red LEDs for a display, though it does not yet light up. The display could potentially create a surface for Web surfing in midair, flash a vehicle’s speed to a driver, or immerse someone in a virtual world, the university said.

The prototype lens does not correct vision, but the researchers say that it could someday offer “visual aids” to help people with vision problems.

Don’t expect to get one of these from your optometrist anytime soon, though. Babak Parviz, a professor of electrical engineering who is leading the research, called the prototype a “very small step” toward a completed lens. Still, Parviz is optimistic that creating a version with a basic display just a few pixels wide should happen “fairly quickly.”

Credit: University of Washington Read more

Windows 7 ?

The rumors in forum postings in the last week or so suggest that Windows 7 may arrive in 2009.

It sounds like Vista may be the new Windows ME, an upgrade from Win98SE that floundered.

Vista received a cool reception from users, who haven’t flocked to the stores to upgrade. I upgraded for about 2 weeks, then “downgraded” back to my stable XP. I didn’t appreciate the fact that much of my expensive, albeit specialty software was rendered useless by Bill Gates. And I like Bill.

And while Microsoft is bringing out a service pack update this year, the company has said it will contain virtually no new features. As such, it is unlikely to boost consumer sales.

Ken Ivey is a veteran technology addict, consultant, author, web designer, and president of MidTN Technology. His website is www.The-Tech-Reporter.com

Setting up a Wireless Router

Using a wireless router makes computing life much more enjoyable. Why confine yourself to work on the computer in the same location you took it out of the box? Setting up a wireless router is easy and allows you the freedom to access the Internet, files, printers, plus much more, from virtually any location in your house or yard. Before you shake your head about setting up a wireless router on your own, trust me, if I can do it, anyone can.

Here are some simple steps for setting up your wireless router.

Select the correct wireless router for your needs.

If you walk into your nearest Best Buy or other computer store, you will see they have a wide variety of routers available. There are basically (3) wireless networking technologies on the market today; 802.11a, 802.11b, and 801.22g. So what are the differences between these wireless technologies?

802.11a wireless protocol is the oldest version of wireless networking technologies currently available. While you may find 802.11a wireless hardware at discounted prices, I would strongly urge you to avoid them. 802.11a is limited in range and capacity versus 802.11b and 802.11g. So why set up your first wireless network with the oldest technology.

802.11b wireless protocol (11Mbs) is by far the most common wireless technology in use today. If you select this wireless protocol, you will be fine. But why not start with the latest and greatest wireless protocol currently available?

802.11g is the best wireless technology on the market and all new computers with built-in wireless cards utilize this protocol. 802.11b wireless protocol was superceded by backwards compatible 802.11g (54Mbs). What this means is that if you have an 802.11b card on some of your computing devices, you can use an 802.11g wireless router without the need to replace your wireless card. If you have the option, I would strongly recommend purchasing 802.11g cards for your computers as well to get the maximum benefits of this wireless network technology.

Connecting your wireless router

Before starting, be sure you have a paper copy of all instructions or the router manual in front of you. Sounds simple, I know, but you would be surprised how many people neglect this basic step. Ok, let’s get started!

The first step will be to power down your DSL or cable modem. This will be accomplished by unplugging the devices from the electrical outlets.

Next, connect the wireless router to your modem. I would recommend keeping the distance between the router and modem as close as possible. I have both modem and wireless router setting side by side on my desk.

Included with the wireless router, you should have a short cable. This is your network cable. Plug the network cable into the wireless router in the port labeled INTERNET, WAN OR WLAN. This designation varies depending on the brand of wireless router you purchased. It does not matter which end of the network cable you connect to the router, since the same type of connector is used on both ends.

Once you have connected the network cable to your wireless router, connect the other end of the cable into your modem. Your modem will only have one port available. You will hear a “click” when a secure connection has been established.

You can now re-insert the cable which provides your Internet access back into your DSL or cable modem.

At this point, you will want to power up your modem. The modem should always be powered up first. Allow a few moments for the Internet connection to synchronize with the modem.

It is now time to configure your wireless router. Temporarily disconnect the network cable from the router and modem. Once you have completed this, connect the network cable to any port on the wireless router not labeled as INTERNET, WAN OR WLAN. You will probably have at least 4 open ports; any one will do. Next, connect the other end of the network cable to your computer. This may seem confusing, however, you need a direct connection between the router and computer to permit configuration.

On your computer, open up an Internet browser and enter the address which corresponds to your specific make of wireless router.

ROUTER ADDRESS USERNAME PASSWORD

3Com 192.168.1.1 admin admin

D-Link 192.168.0.1 admin

Linksys 192.168.1.1 admin admin

Microsoft Broadband 192.168.2.1 admin admin

Netgear 192.168.0.1 admin password

Once you have entered the address into your browser, you will be prompted to enter a username and password. Reference the chart for your respective information. While in the configuration mode, you will have the option to change your password, which I strongly suggest.

Next, you will need to set your network id or SSID. This name does not have to be lengthy, but choose something that is unique and but easy enough for you to remember.

Protecting your network. You will also have the option to either secure your network or leave it “open”. By leaving your network “open”, anyone within range of your wireless router signal will be able to access your network. If you live in a location in a development or apartment, there is a good chance someone will be riding your network..using your Internet access for free and degrading your access quality. It is a good rule of thumb to secure access to networks and computers whenever possible.

To secure your network, select the WEP tab or option. WEP stands for Wireless Encryption. You will be prompted to enter a password or passphrase. We have already addressed changing your administrator password from the default, so let’s move on. Be sure to select Apply or OK after making your selections.

Disconnect the network cable from your computer, and reconnect as before. One end of the network cable goes into the port on the wireless router marked INTERNET, WAN, or WLAN, and the other end connects to your DSL or cable modem.

After a few brief moments, an icon should appear on your desktop alerting you a wireless network has been detected. Right click on the icon and select “View Available Wireless Networks”.

If you do not see your network, click on the Refresh button from the menu. Once your network is visible, click on it.

If you have WEP protected your wireless network, you will be prompted to enter your password or passphrase. If you have chosen to leave your network unprotected, you will be cautioned that you are attempting to access an unsecured network. Select your network and press “Connect”.

Article written by LSG at Lilsurfergirl.com

Technical writer for Lilsurfergirl.com - Tech Reviews From a Different Perspective Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rick_Huey

Web Conferencing

In a technology driven world, constant communication is a necessity to carry on a business or a relationship. With Internet web conferencing, the world has become an interconnected place. The technology has become an important factor for the success and growth of a business. This is mainly because businesses today are conducted simultaneously across many nations. Also, the economy of one country is linked to the economy of another.

Internet web conferencing has enabled people to be in constant touch with each other. Irrespective of the country one is living in, web conferencing keeps them connected. It helps in conducting business across many nations just by sitting at one place.

Companies today have Internet web conferencing that can be done through video in their offices as it helps them in keeping touch with their clients on a regular basis. Many people can converse simultaneously with the help of the web conferencing technology. Web conferencing has reduced the physical space between people, and made the world a small place to live.

Advantages Of The Technology Used In Internet Web Conferencing

Internet web conferencing saves not only time but also helps save money. Now people are not required to go to far off places for business or personal purposes. Also, it saves one the hassle of getting a flight booked or finding accommodation. Not only for professionals but also for people who live away from their families, Internet web conferencing keeps them in touch with their families.

The technology has an edge over other technologies, as it not only enables you to talk to the people but also see their live images. Also, it is an affordable medium to communicate. A high-speed Internet connection, modem, web camera and a computer system are some of the important equipment that is used for conducting a web conference.

Just keep in mind, that it is vital that the Internet connection you select should be at least 1 Mbps as the speed provided will then be faster, as it allow you to get optimum results for Internet web conferencing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ricky_Lim

Online Trends - Digital Advertising

For years and years, advertisers have touted the potential of the Internet as a place where entrepreneurs could pinpoint targeted consumers. Now, finally, it appears that businesses are taking interactive advertising seriously on the Web - And beyond. Companies that have advertised on everything from billboards to newspapers to television are beginning to revamp all of their marketing strategies. They are beginning to see that Internet advertising can work despite some of the technology glitches and privacy issues that challenged the earlier waves of the technology.

Pointing to the success of Internet pioneers like Google, advertisers are eager to discover new ways to try and sell their products based on the kind of searches initiated by consumers into online search engines. It is becoming a sort of earth-shattering shift for many established advertising agencies, old-media style advertisers, which have often had trouble keeping up in the Information Age.

See, so many creative, but perhaps uninspired, advertisers remain stuck in a mindset that favors 30-second TV commercials, or old-school ads on billboards or newspapers. But the new shift is to the Internet. And the next wave has already been targeted - all-new forms of interactive ads that provide business with pinpoint tracking technology that measure the impact of advertising campaigns online.

Still, nobody should expect that the advertising business is about to change overnight. Some Internet advertising capabilities and the new form of web-based advertising are already beginning to garner new credibility and they seem to gain new accolades every day. Soon the Internet will be taking many, many dollars away from the old-school advertising outlets such as newspapers, billboards and other print publications.

As the demand for accountability rises, advertisers are certain to devote more resources to performance-based campaigns, which are most effectively launched via the Internet. That is why most experts predict that an ever-growing amount of web-based advertisements will be appearing in the years to come. One prediction you can bank on is that the Internet will continue to see an increasing percentage of the estimated $260 billion that is spent on all kinds of U.S. advertising each year.

Online Trends: Digital Advertising is written by Kevin Cantera for Uplayme | share music and video online Kevin Cantera is a free-lance writer based in Utah’s “Little Silicon Valley” - also known as Provo. He tries to keep his ear to the ground in the burgeoning world of digital music and Internet networking.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Cantera

Online Shopping Safety

When you are shopping, banking or accessing other sensitive or confidential information online, how can you be sure that no one can monitor or intercept this personal information? Moreover, how can you be sure that someone can’t get this information from your computer later? The answer of the first question is simpler that the second one.

The answer of the first question is simpler that the second one. Mil Shield is a powerful privacy protection tool that can automatically clean all online and offline traces from your computer, which is very important to your Internet privacy, as you will see below:

Traces left on your computer

The discussion above covers the protection of your Internet privacy from Internet cheats or impostors. However the encryption can not help if someone gets to control your PC or has access to your computer through one of the numerous security holes in the operating system and application software. The thing is that Internet Explorer leaves many traces of your Web surfing. These include Internet history, cookies, Temporary Internet files (a.k.a. Internet cache) and AutoComplete forms and passwords. If an intruder gets access to these traces, he can have a full record of all Web surfing and even some of your computer activities that are not related to Internet.

You can delete some of these traces through Internet Explorer options but not all of them are really deleted (see the article Delete Index.dat files for the most obscure and hard to erase traces). Furthermore, it is real pain to have to clean even these traces because there is no centralized place to control this and there is no way to automate the process. Finally, some of the traces are actually good for your browsing experience - Internet cache speeds up the browsing, cookies protect you from entering your user information over and over again and history makes it easy to type the addresses of your favorite Web sites.

Secure pages and secure connections

Everything that you enter in the online forms when you are shopping, travels through many (tens or even hundreds) switching devices and computers. In order to be sure that no one can intercept this information, a special way of communication is used, called Secure Socket Layer (SSL). SSL ciphers (encrypts) the information on your computer and deciphers (decrypts) the information on the Web server that you are accessing. But how can you be sure that SSL is used when you are shopping online?

First, you have to look at the address bar of your browser and see what the address of the page where you enter your personal and credit card information looks like. If the address begins with https: (s for secure) instead of http:, then this page is using SSL. Note that only the page(s) where you actually enter your personal and credit card information need to be protected with SSL. All other pages on the Web site in most cases don’t use SSL because they don’t need to.

Digital certificates, cipher strength and Internet privacy

With SSL (the secure protocol described above) you can be sure that no one can intercept and decode the private information sent to the online store or whatever web page you are accessing via secure connection. However, there is another danger - how can you be sure that the online shop itself is not a cheat or impostor?

To address this concern, when you visit the online store order page and you submit your personal data, the online store server automatically sends its digital certificate. This is essentially an electronic ID card that proves the online store identity to your browser, and verifies that it was issued by a certificate authority that your browser trusts. This certificate is issued to the online store by a trusted third party called a certificate authority. In addition to proving the online store identity, the certificate provides a cryptographic “key” (cipher) that is used to encode and decode your communication with the online store. Once your browser approves the certificate, the secure server encrypts any information before it travels across the Internet.

Conclusion

As we saw the online shopping experience can be safe and joyful only if we take some precautions. Here is a summary of the steps that you need to follow in order to protect your Internet privacy:

- Check if the order page(s) are SSL protected. The address of the page must begin with https: and (if you are using Internet Explorer) the little padlock icon on the bottom of the browser window must be locked.

- If the security alerts of Internet Explorer don’t bother you, leave them turned on (or turn them on if they are turned off).

- Use a browser that supports 128-bit cipher strength and (if you are really paranoid) check the digital certificates of the secure pages.

- Use a privacy protection program like Mil Shield in order to avoid the possibility of someone that can steal your personal information after the online transaction.

Well, happy shopping!

Article source: http://www.milincorporated.com/a_online_shopping.html

Company profile:

Mil Incorporated was founded with an ambitious objective to be a trusted software partner for individuals and enterprises around the world. Mil Incorporated provides software security and privacy solutions that incorporate state of the art technology, security expertise, and substantial resources.

Web address: http://www.milincorporated.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mariyana_Vasileva

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