Internet Service Providers (ISP) - Email POP3 settings Effective as of 2008.07.11
Compusmart: (taken over by Interbaun): pop=pop.compusmart.ab.ca, smtp=smtp.compusmart.ab.ca
Interbaun: (taken over by Uniserve) pop=pop.interbaun.com, smtp=smtp.interbaun.com
Uniserve: pop=pop.uniserve.com, smtp=mail.uniserve.com
Shaw: pop=shawmail.ed.shawcable.net, smtp=shawmail.ed.shawcable.net
Telus: pop=pop.telus.net, smtp=smtp.telus.net
Syban: pop=mail.syban.net, smtp=mail.syban.net
Netkaster: pop=pop.netkaster.com, smtp=smtp.netkaster.com
New computers - Desktops and Laptops:
Desktop computer (Personal Computer / PC) and Laptop computer specifications / requirements are slightly different however have many similarities. The following is some information for consideration, to make more informed choices when purchasing a new computer or evaluating your current system.
The main difference between a Desktop computer and a Laptop computer is parts replacement, expandability and price. Desktops are cheaper, easy to replace parts, easily upgradeable. Laptops are pretty much what you get when you buy one - some parts are replaceable, but sometimes not easily, are severely limited in upgradeability, and are more expensive due to miniaturization.
This is not a “be-all” or “end-all” discussion of what’s out there. If you would like more information or assistance you can contact me for brief questions. For in-depth discussion or procurement assistance please see my Rates page.
Decide what features you need, and the the “niceties” to have… The basic provisio is to first identify what you want to do with the computer, and then find a system that meets those minimum requirements, and for you to know what options are also available. It is then your choice as to whether you want to go to the additional expense of the extras. That all being said, most computers today have “a lot” of extras built in as standard.
There are a lot of terms and acronyms used in computer lingo, and even definitions can be somewhat varied, even by the various manufacturers - and although it may be overwhelming suffice it to say you’re simply comparing parts / options. Compare the process of buying a computer to that of a car, and you’ll be OK.
Desktop: Basically a computer which does not “tend” to move. Usually term defining a system comprised of a computer (box), a separate keyboard and mouse, and a monitor.
Laptop: Basically a computer which “can” move. Usually term defining a system comprised of a computer with the mouse, keyboard and monitor all in one and which you may carry with you due to its smaller size and weight (usually about 6 lbs or 2.5 kg).
Operating System: Essentially the “platform” your computer needs to perform minimal operations - required in order for your applications to operate. Windows XP (4 kinds) vs Windows Vista (7 kinds - Home Basic / Home Premium) - typically “Home” versions are all you need, with “Vista” being Microsofts current / newest operating system
Processors: The “brains” which makes your computer work. AMD (Athlon) vs Intel (Duo Core / Core 2 Duo) - either AMD or Intel is fine - AMD is slightly better priced but comparable in speed
Memory: The “memory” your computer uses to “remember” more, typically the more the better. Minimum capacity - 512 MB (megabytes) - recommend 1024 (1 GB (gigabytes))
Hard Drive: The “storage” space for your documents, files, applications and operating system. Minimum capacity - 100 GB (gigabytes) - if you want to do more graphics or dvd copying or games you may need more however 100 GB is substantial
Video: This actually refers to the part of the computer that sends the instructions to your “monitor” in order to display information / graphics etc. Onboard video is the norm these days, and typical video now has 64 MB memory - only reason you want to upgrade (to a video card with more memory, is for games… doesn’t matter much anymore what brand - and memory cards of a particular manufacture or with more memory are geared to towards upper end games / gamers.
Monitor: The device which displays your information. There are two primary types available - LCD and CRT. LCD is the flat panel screen which takes less of your desktop and now typically comes in a “widescreen” format for DVD playback and also more display area.
USB Slots: Typically 4 to 6 USB slots - look however for 2 slots on the front of your pc for easy access - there are typicall 4 in the rear… this is now the norm for plugging in devices like keyboards, mice, printers, usb memory keys and camera’s - use the rear slots for connections you don’t change, and use the front for things like iPods, USB Keys, camera’s etc.
DVD vs CD Drives: With the price of DVD Writer drives (DVD-RW) now being so cheap there’s no reason not to get this format, whether you use it or not - you will be able to play cd’s, copy cd’s, backup to cd, read dvd’s and also be able to copy dvd’s - you need the right software however typically that’s included in the operating system or add-on software provided with the drives
Floppy Drives: Typically not used anymore by the home user - superseded by usb memory keys
Software: Purchase what you need to perform the tasks you need to accomplish - word processors, spreadsheet programs etc. There are suites available like Microsoft Office or Corel Office, which combine several for your convenience
Games: Important to verify the requirements on the game packaging, ensuring that your pc meets the requirements for “memory”, “video adapter” and “video memory”, “game pads”, “joy sticks” and “driving type” games… anything basically the game requires… typically the better games are more expensive but have better operation - cheaper games can be severely handi-capping
Routers and Modems:
Wireless:
