What to Do About a Wet Laptop

Laptops can be drenched in a moment.

According to studies by laptop insurance provider Protecsure, spilled liquid ranks among the top four causes of damage to portable computers. From that agonizing, slow-motion moment when the spill happens until the instant the liquid lands on your computer, you have just seconds to remove the battery and unplug the power adapter. The faster you do this, the better chance you have of avoiding a short circuit and saving your computer.

Air Dry
If you just spilled a few drops of clean water on your laptop, the simplest method is to let it dry naturally. Turn the laptop upside down, leaving it open so that air can flow around the keyboard; you can even set it in front of a fan. Don’t use heat, though, because hot air can melt plastic components inside the machine. After letting it dry for two days, you can check for moisture around the area where the spill occurred. If it feels dry, reinstall the battery and boot up the machine.
Desiccant

If the liquid soaked deep into the innards of your laptop, you can draw it out using a desiccant, such as the silica gel that often ships with new products to keep them dry, or some uncooked rice. You also need a container large enough to hold your laptop -- a plastic storage tub with a lid or a garbage bag and tape -- to create an airtight seal that prevents external moisture from saturating the desiccant before it can draw the water out. After filling the container with enough rice to submerge your laptop completely, close it and keep the computer inside for two days. Brush off any rice with a soft cloth before powering on the laptop.

Remove the Keyboard
Laptop keyboards are the most vulnerable spot for spills, and you may need to remove the keyboard to reach all of the liquid. Start by pouring off the liquid and wiping up anything that spilled on the computer's surface. After removing the keyboard according to the instructions found in the support section of the laptop manufacturer’s website, you should wipe up any remaining liquid and use a mild cleaner, sprayed onto a soft cloth, to finish the job.

Alcohol
If your computer was completely submerged in a liquid other than water, surface-cleaning techniques probably won't be enough to get inside all the nooks and crannies. Use 99 percent pure rubbing or isopropyl alcohol to displace the offending liquid -- anything that's less pure may leave residue when it evaporates, which could cause a short. In a large container, submerge your laptop in rubbing alcohol for several minutes, and swish it around so the alcohol gets into all the components inside. After removing the computer from the alcohol solution, let it dry for two days.

Disassemble the Computer
If all else fails, and you have confidence in your technical abilities, you can take apart your laptop and clean it. There’s a risk of further damage, however, so proceed with caution and follow the instructions on the laptop manufacturer’s website. After you've dissembled the computer, clean up any liquid residue with a cotton swab dipped in 99 percent isopropyl alcohol. The computer should dry for 48 hours before you reassemble it and turn it on
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Selecting Speakers for Your Laptop

"Nearly every PC includes some sort of default speakers, but they're invariably not very good," an October 2011 CNET article observes. The same goes for laptops, whose built-in speakers usually lack power unless designed specifically for multimedia use. Among three main types of external laptop speaker systems -- mobile, desktop and high-end audiophile quality -- the best kind for you depends upon your needs.

Mobile Speakers
Often sold as a clip-on bar, mobile speakers for laptops are convenient to bring with you and easy to connect. Typically offering less than 5 watts per speaker, their small size can mean less responsive sound, but performance varies between models and manufacturers often don't provide exact specs. Plug in the USB cable and you're good to go, with power and sound connected at once. Some may also have auxiliary inputs to connect to mobile devices such as an iPod or smartphone.

The Logitech Z305 is one example of this kind of speaker, with 360-degree sound and healthy bass. Using USB, it requires neither batteries nor a bulky adapter, and it can clip onto your laptop or sit on a desk. If space is at a premium, you may want something like the compact, USB-powered Altec Lansing ORBIT. Its circular design fits where many other speakers cannot, and a built-in stand helps project the sound toward the audience. It only has mono sound but good clarity and power, although bass is a bit lacking.
Powered Desktop Speakers

Powered desktop speaker systems aren't particularly portable, but they aren't hard to set up, either. Often containing two desk units and a separate subwoofer, powered speakers are the workhorse of the laptop audio world. You need to plug them into the wall, but they contain built-in amplifiers and draw higher power accordingly, from 20 to 200 watts total.

The Cyber Acoustics CA 3602 comes in a standard two-speaker, one-subwoofer configuration. Each side channel gets 6 watts and the bass consumes up to 18 watts for 30 watts of total power. Adjustable volume and bass make for comfortable listening, with a 3.5 millimeter line-in and headset-out jacks. Sound reproduction is good and can easily fill a mid-sized room.

With 200 watts of THX-certified sound, the Logitech Z623 packs plenty of sound into an affordable product. Two RCA inputs and two mini line-in jacks make it simple to connect to any kind of sound output. A headphone jack is included for more private listening, and you'll find controls for bass and volume on one of the speakers.

High-End Systems
A full speaker system includes magnetic shielding, variable crossovers and other features targeted at the audiophile market. Some sets include their own amplifiers, while others require a receiver connection, but all have superior sound quality.

Not quite as costly as a full speaker system, the Bose Companion 5 promises stellar quality in a desktop package. These speakers support USB and a mini-jack for connecting to your laptop. Along with volume and bass controls, this unit also includes a mute button on its wired remote, which may be easier to get to than the subwoofer. It also has a six-channel sound decoder inside for higher fidelity playback on movies and games.

Not for beginners, the Polk Audio RM6750 is a solid 5.1-channel system with magnetically shielded satellite speakers -- common to surround-sound systems -- for use next to electronics. It includes powerful controls such as low pass filter depth and phase selector, and the subwoofer cranks out 100 watts. Extra satellites will turn this set into a 6.1, 7.1 or even 8.1 system. These speakers need a separate amplifier to ensure the best sound experience, and connect with bare wires.

Making a Decision
Once you know the kind of speaker you want, it's time to factor in your budget. As of March 2012, mobile speakers cost about $20 to $60, while powered desktop speakers fall between $60 and $150. High-end speakers start around $150 and go to upwards of $400.

A final concern is size. As with laptops themselves, there's a tradeoff between speaker performance and portability. "Bigger and heavier speakers almost always sound better than small, lightweight ones," says Steve Guttenberg of CNET, but high-end systems aren't designed for toting around with your laptop. Some music lovers decide on mobile speakers for on-the-run listening and keep a larger, better-quality set at home
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Buying a Laptop on a Budget

Look for laptop savings locally and on the Web.
Buying a laptop on a budget takes some planning. Before you start looking, scope out a realistic budget range, starting with the worst-case bottom price and ending with your realistic can't-exceed ceiling. Jot down a list of the software you'll need to run, and check each application's requirements as you compile a feature set that represents your rock-bottom performance needs.

Limit Your Options
Take a hard look at exactly what you'll use this laptop for, and match your needs to the bottom end of your specifications. For example, choose a smaller screen if you won't need to open wide spreadsheets or view panoramic images, or opt for a slower processor if you'll only use word-processing software. Plan your purchase to minimize the extras you'll need to buy -- extra RAM, for example -- and figure any necessary add-ons into your budget. Inexpensive netbooks make good sidekicks for full-sized computers, although they typically lack the optical drives you'll need for software installation from CDs and DVDs, and don't offer the performance of an entry-level notebook.

Buy RefurbishedMany computer manufacturers offer refurbished devices at sizable discounts. These typically represent consumer returns that undergo thorough testing, with replacement parts installed where any defects show up. You'll receive a manufacturer's warranty with these units, although the warranty term may differ from the coverage offered on new systems. Some refurbished units are current models, whereas others lag at least one hardware generation behind. Don't expect a broad selection.

Choose Store Demos
You can sometimes score a good deal on a floor demo when you visit a local retailer and look for display units placed on sale when new models come out. Check these units carefully for signs that they've been pounded on by kids and careless adults, and ask for verification of warranty coverage in writing. If you can't make sure everything works while you're still in the store, either walk away and find a better deal, or clarify your return privileges before you buy.

Student/Teacher Discounts
Whether you're in college or teaching school, your current ID card can entitle you to educational discounts on computer hardware and special-edition software. Many computer manufacturers offer direct discounts when you furnish them with a copy of your school ID. Some schools sell systems in their bookstores and offer the discount at the checkout counter. School staff members also qualify for price breaks, as do parents of students. A California-based not-for-profit, Student Discount Laptops, offers new and refurbished computers for high school and college students across the United States.

Military Discounts
Active-duty military personnel and reservists with on-base access can qualify for special pricing at their Post Exchange, or PX. Don't expect the range of options you'd find in a warehouse-style retail store or on an Internet merchant site. You'll be limited to the models in stock, but you'll be able to buy at a discount without waiting for delivery. You can also obtain military discounts directly from computer manufacturers
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How to Set Up Microsoft Outlook Email on a Laptop

How to Set Up Microsoft Outlook Email on a Laptop
Email is a mandatory part of today's world, and having an email account on your laptop is almost never an option. Microsoft's Outlook software, which is part of the Microsoft Office suite, is the most well known software client package today. Available in the free "light" version of Outlook Express, a Macintosh version called Entourage and the standard Outlook, it's an easy-to-configure package, which requires only a few settings to work perfectly.

Instructions
1

Launch Outlook and select "E-Mail Accounts" under the Tools menu.

2

Choose "Add new e-mail account" when the wizard opens.
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3

Select the type of server your provider uses. For most DSL and cable ISPs, you will check off POP3. If you're connecting to your email at work, check with your IT department to see if you're working with an IMAP or POP server, or a Microsoft Exchange Server.

4

Enter the following information in the POP3 settings window (you may have to call your ISP for some of these settings):
Your Name: This is the name that will appear in the recipient's inbox when they receive an email from you.
E-Mail Address: This is your full email address.
User Name: This your is logon name, which is usually your email address, or the first part of your email address (before the @ sign).
Password: Your password.
Incoming mail server (POP3): This is the name of the server that allows you to receive email.
Outgoing mail server (SMTP): This is the name of the server that allows you to send email.

5

Find out if there are any additional settings you have to configure. For consumer email providers (DSL and cable), the default settings under "More Settings" are usually all that is required. But for corporate accounts, you may need to click on the "More Setting..." button to configure any additional security settings. Here, you should find out from your IT department or ISP if any additional steps are required. These include different port numbers, secure encrypted connection (SSL) or custom authentication scripts.

6

Finish the wizard and test your email. If you need to go back to tweak any settings, repeat steps 1 and 2, except choose "View" or "Change existing e-mail accounts" when the wizard opens.

Tips & Warnings
Using Outlook with Web-based email (such as GMail, Yahoo Mail, Hotmail) requires you to log onto those accounts via the Web, and configure the settings to allow you to use Outlook to send and receive mail.
If you travel, you will most likely have to change your outgoing (SMTP) server to reflect the requirements of the ISP you're using
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Macs and Malware

Apple this and Apple that. Do the success of the iPhone and more recently the iPad, people have gone iCrazy. Everywhere you go you see people with their heads down laying with iPhones and iPads. However, when it comes to laptops and desktop computers, Apple is still trailing by a large margin. While the differences between PC’s and Mac’s seem to be marginal at best, it is important to note the key area in which PC and Mac computers drastically differ: Security.
With Apple recently dominating the market share with their products, more people than ever are picking up Macbook Air and Macbook Pro because of their perceived invincibility to malware infections. Malware infections have long been a major drawback to Windows computers. It poses a major question facing consumers: Can my Mac computer be infected with a virus?
Absolutely.
However, the rate in which Mac computers are infected with malware versus its PC counterparts is alarmingly low. As a result, most Mac users don’t even bother installing anti-virus software—something that is almost considered a crime in the PC community. Nevertheless, it is not the superiority of the Mac that causes less malware infections, but rather a culmination of other factors such as:
• Less users of OSX and therefore less targeting of OSX customers by hackers
• The Unix kernel used in OSX is more reliable and secure in general
• Macs do not use a common language for coders
• Less Mac-specific programs
That does not mean that you can NOT get a virus on a Mac computer, it just is very unlikely. However, all internet users are succumb to phishing and bad ads on the internet that can greatly affect system performance. In addition, regardless of how the system performs, Mac users are still susceptible to online fraud from fraudulent websites.
Another key area in which to focus your attention on the fact that Mac computers can be carriers for virus infections without showing any clear warning signs such as a decrease in system performance. And as a result, it is quite possible to spread the virus through emails and file transfers to Windows users. Those who are running Bootcamp also need be concerned about the idea of getting virus infections on the Windows partition of the drive. If you feel that your computer may be under attack, whether it be a Mac or PC, it is best to contact a computer repair company for further assistance.

Ergonomic Tips for Laptop Users

Laptop computers are lightweight, portable and convenient, allowing us to keep in touch with the home, office and school from almost anywhere.

Unfortunately, the laptop’s compact design, with attached screen and keyboard, forces laptop users into awkward postures. When the screen is at the right height, the keyboard position is too high; and when the keyboard is at the right height, the screen is too low.

Laptops pose less risk when used for short periods of time, but nowadays, many people use laptops as their main computer. This creates an ongoing tradeoff between poor neck/head posture and poor hand/wrist posture.

This brochure provides tips on how you can set up your laptop to achieve optimal postures as well as how to transport your laptop with less wear and tear on your body.

Setting up your laptop for frequent use
A comfortable workstation setup promotes neutral postures with the neck aligned with the spine (neutral - not bent or thrust forward), back relaxed but supported, shoulders relaxed (not hunched or rounded), elbows close to the body and bent at an angle between 90 and 120 degrees, and wrists and hands straight (not bent or turned). If you use a laptop frequently, optimize your home or office laptop workstation to promote such an ergonomic posture.

Setting up your laptop for frequent use
Maintain a neutral neck posture by placing the top of the screen at about eye level or slightly lower if using bifocal glasses.

Use a laptop stand or place your laptop on a stable support surface, such as monitor risers, reams of paper, or phone books so that the screen height can be adjusted. Attach a regular size, external keyboard and pointing device to the laptop, and place them on an adjustable keyboard tray or desk. They should be positioned at or slightly below elbow height.

Use a docking station whenever possible to more closely resemble a standard desktop workstation where input devices can be attached.

Angle the screen to reduce bending your head forward. Use your eyes instead of your neck to adjust your line of vision. Reduce glare by positioning the screen at a right angle to windows and away from overhead lighting. Laptop lights that plug into a USB port can be used to provide extra light, if needed.

Clean the screen frequently as dust can make it difficult to read and may increase eyestrain. Be sure to use an appropriate anti-static cleaning material that is safe for laptop computers.

Use a document holder to angle source documents vertically to promote a neutral neck posture.

Take frequent stretch breaks every 30 to 45 minutes.

Setting up your laptop for occasional use
If you usually use a desktop computer, but occasionally use a laptop, here are some quick fixes for short-term laptop use.

Use a chair that supports a comfortable upright or slightly reclined posture. In a reclined position, prop your feet up to maintain a neutral trunk/thigh angle. Be sure to maintain a neutral neck posture. Use a towel roll or inflatable lumbar pillow to provide low back support.

Place the laptop on your lap to help keep your wrists straight while keying. An empty 2-3 inch binder with the wider edge toward you knees will create an angle that will help keep your wrists straight and maximize the height of the screen.

Don’t place your laptop on top of a pillow or other soft material. The lack of circulation could shut down the fan, which can overheat the computer.

Use a document holder to position documents vertically.

Stand up and stretch frequently.

Carrying your laptop
The weight of a laptop and accessories can add up! Here are some ways to reduce the wear and tear on your body when transporting your laptop:

Lighten your load by purchasing a lightweight laptop. Reduce the weight in your carrying case by removing

unnecessary items, such as drivers, battery packs and cables.

Carry your laptop in a wheeled case or a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a sturdy hip belt. If this doesn’t appeal to you,

switch hands or shoulders frequently when using a carrying case with a handle or shoulder strap.

When carrying files, binders, and additional items, consider putting them in a separate case to balance the load.

Eliminate the need to carry your laptop by using portable media storage (memory stick, flash cards) or by using a virtual portal.

8 Tips for Using Laptops in Hot & Warm Weather

It’s that time of year again in North America where temperatures climb and weather becomes erratic. Add to that the possibility of power outages and you have new challenges to face when using your laptop. Take care in warm and hot weather to follow these tips to ensure you use your laptop safely and don’t have any problems with it.

1. Safe Temperature RangeMost laptop computers operate properly in the safe temperature range of 50 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit or 10 to 35 degrees Celsius. Keep in mind that when bringing a laptop in from the warm hot air, the laptop must cool down to the interior temperature before you use it. By the same token if you use your laptop outdoors, then let the laptop warm up to the outside temperature before starting it up.

2. Hot CarsJust as you wouldn’t leave people or animals in a car in hot weather, you should not leave your laptop and other mobile gear either. Leaving your laptop closed in a vehicle in hot temperatures will cause damage to your laptop. The heat is not good for the internal components or the external casings.

3. Bright SunNever leave your laptop where it is exposed to direct sunlight, whether it is in use or shut down. If you must use your laptop outside in bright conditions you can use either:
a laptop glare screen which cuts down on the glare caused by the sun
a laptop hood which cuts down on the amount of light directed at the laptop display.

4. HumidityIn warm weather people are fond of saying it’s not the heat itself that bothers them but the dreaded humidity. Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air and the recommended safe range of relative humidity is 10-80%. Moisture can cause damage to the internal components of a laptop and you may not even realize that the damage has occurred.

5. Take it OutIf you use your laptop in hot temperatures consider using a removable hard drive to store your data on. This way you can help protect your data and ensure that your removable hard drive stays protected from exposure to heat and the sun.

6. Weather WatchingIn warm, hot weather there are more storms, often with little or no warning and more severe weather occurrences which mobile professionals must face when traveling. Equipment to help protect your mobile gear includes having surge protectors, power invertors and spare batteries. External battery charges that don’t require an electrical connection are another wise investment.

7. Keep it CoolUse a laptop stand to disperse heat that your laptop generates. Laptop stands are available in a variety of styles to suit your working needs. There are laptop stands which include fans to help dissipate the heat and keep your laptop working at its best.

8. Pack it WiselyUsing a properly fitted and well-padded laptop case for your mobile gear will help keep it insulated against heat, moisture and direct sunlight. When buying your laptop case make sure all your mobile gear will fit securely and be protected from the effects of weather.