SMS Vs Email - The Moot Point

The comparison between SMS and e-mail has always been an issue of debate in all the technological forums around the world. And this debate is not unforeseen. It had to happen, as when two equally powerful technologies namely computers and mobile phones are standing face to face with each other. The trend peacefully coexisted for quite a while and both the techniques of communications are still very much popular in their own respective niche markets. And each medium has its own similarities and weaknesses that compensate the drawbacks of each other.

The comparison arrived with the convergence of these devices where computers started serving the function of calling and the mobile phones started working like computers. Then started the competition between both mediums. While we analyse both mediums, it should be understood that both are equally relevant in their own regards and they cannot replace each other. SMS is a short message that is a more informal method of staying in touch and yet it is more accessible in comparison to an e-mail. This is a genuine sentiment amongst all of us that an e-mail is generally used by all the white collared executives to communicate in a more dignified way. On the other hand the SMS is used in a very informal fashion by the blue collared people. Never mind these constructions; they can not be 100% applicable in both the cases.

There started a better and more innovative version of the SMS, namely MMS, that had more to do with the videos and clips but the concept couldn't pick up in the mass market and was termed as a big flop. And to an extent it is a failure. However, the drawback of SMS is that you have a limited word limit

(160 words) and you are charged money for sending an SMS. However, on the other hand, the e-mail has always been free of cost and is more economical and without any word limit. So, you could write as long as you can while using your e-mails.

But SMS is more efficient than the E-mails as it would work everywhere and you could check your SMS even while you are outside. With the advent of the blackberry connectivity and various e-mail protocols in a mobile phone, checking your e-mails is possible through a mobile phone also but again the cost factor abstain us in doing so.

Thus, both these mediums have retained their hold on their respective markets and thus despite all the comparisons, it seems that the both ways are inevitable and can't take each other's place.

Discover Breakthrough Technology in the Top 5 Wireless Laptop Adapter Cards

Laptop adapter cards are becoming much more critical for mobile workers when it comes to taking advantage of Wi-Fi Internet access in airports, hotels, train stations and other hot spots. Face it, working on the road is sometimes not a lot of fun, especially when connectivity problems are your main issue. If you're struggling with connectivity issues or you are simply looking for purchase information, here are the top 5 wireless laptop adapter cards.

The Linksys WPC54G Wireless-G Notebook Adapter is compatible with all versions of Windows and comes with a one-year warranty. This exceptional wireless adapter can work with both B and G networks and will give you the best connectivity option available. You will pay between $45 and $100 and get a simple way to add or upgrade wireless connectivity in your notebook computer. All you do is slide it into your notebook's PC card slot to enjoy high-speed wireless network access and still retain the freedom of your true mobility. You'll enjoy the way this unit overlays the signals of two wireless GE compatible radios, the multiple in and the multiple out technology. It will effectively double your data rate. It actually uses these reflections to increase the range and reduce dead spots in your coverage area.

Adaptable to Windows 98 and more recent operating systems, the D-Link DWL-G650 Air Plus Xtreme G Wireless Card Bus Adapter comes with a user-friendly setup guide and software. Complete with a three-year warranty and 24/7 toll-free customer support, this adapter comes at a nice affordable price range between $25 and $65. This adapter delivers lightning fast performance, up to 15 times faster than 802.11b. Excellent and consistent data rate delivery will allow you to operate at the highest possible speed, especially when it comes to seamless access to the wireless network in a homogenous environment.

The easy to install Proxim Orinoco 11a/b/g ComboCard Gold comes with a three-year warranty. You will be able to connect to any wireless network you may encounter when traveling and work up to a distance of 200 feet in wireless G mode. In addition to lightning access, it delivers proven high performance for a broad range of applications and host computer systems. Quick simple connection provides for easy installation. You'll pay between $50 and $75.

If you're a mobile Mac user, you are going to enjoy the wireless connectivity benefits that the Airport extreme card can provide. It operates on the 802.11 G standard and is backward compatible with the 802.11 G. You will be able to do data transfer rates of up to 54 Mb per second and it's a snap to exchange files or play multi-user games. Prices range from $50-$100.

The fifth one is the SMC SMC2835W EZ Connect G. also compatible with old wireless GE. With these standards this laptop adapter card can handle bandwidth intensive applications such as Web conferencing. It comes with an easy to setup CD, which installs the software automatically. According to the manufacturer, it will operate up to 1155 feet and will support both WEP encryption and Wi-Fi Protected Access(WPA). It's possible that with this exceptional product, you will enjoy 50% higher performance than what you're achieving now. The smart router automatically detects and configures your cable or DSL Internet connection, which can be very handy. Expect to pay between 50 and $100.

As a mobile user and one who demands the fastest and best connectivity possible, you're advised to consider one of the above products to deliver what you're looking for when you want it!

iPhone Flunks Out at Duke University

Well it wasn't AT&T's west coast network, but the iPhone did manage to short circuit one, albeit much smaller, network today. The iPhone's Wi-Fi connection appears to be causing problems on the wireless network at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.

The built-in 802.11b/g adapters on a number of phones occasionally flood certain parts of the University's wireless LAN with MAC address requests. This has lead to the temporary loss of signal from 12 to 30 wireless access points on different occasions.

The campus primary WLAN provider, Cisco, is currently working with network administrators who have opened a help desk ticket with Apple. However, a specific cause has yet to be determined.

Because it is summer, a time in which the majority of full-time students are not enrolled in classes, the problem is not as severe as say during finals week of fall semester. However, when students return for classes in the fall, they are certain to bring more iPhones with them. And with more iPhones, come even more network requests flooding the campus system.

The iPhones appear to be flooding the University's access points with up to 18,000 address requests per second (nearly 10Mbps of bandwidth) and hording the campus airtime. When the access points can no longer handle the intense traffic, they proceed to shut down for 10-15 minutes with no means to communicate with Wi-Fi enabled devices. According to Kevin Miller, assistant director, communications infrastructure, with Duke's Office of Information Technology, there are currently 150 or so Apple iPhones regularly using Duke's Wi-Fi network.

The iPhone uses the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) to request the MAC address of the destination node, for which it already has the IP address. When it doesn't get an answer, the iPhone just keeps asking, leading to the aforementioned 18,000 requests per second.

So far, the communication with Apple has been "one-way," according to Miller. After initially filing the problem ticket, Apple has told him the problem is being "escalated" but as of mid-afternoon Monday, nothing significant had been heard from Apple.

With this story in full rotation in the blogoshpere and national news publications, Apple would be wise to offer some real solutions to the problems, and fast. With an angry consumer rights group and an irritated mob of EDGE customers already barking up their proverbial tree, this is just one more bump in the road the iPhone must cope with and resolve.

The coming days may prove costly for Apple as they could see their college-age market shrink due to potential perceived complications with campus wireless networks. Regardless of whether the Duke case is an isolated incident, the negative press from its occurrence is sure to leave some college-aged purchasers with a bitter taste in their mouth.

Discover New Laptop Bags For Function and Posh Styling

Let's begin with the Avion laptop bag. Discover a lady's laptop bag that is stylish and functional, and definitely a bag for women. It has intricate details such as the zipper pulls in the shape of the letter "P" and the features are set apart from other laptop bags for women. You'll love how these features make it distinctive and appealing, and it comes in dimensions that are 12" x 14". It also carries on your back easily and comfortably. Ladies, if you like pink suede, this is a tremendous bag called the Komen Pink Suede Notebook Tote. It is distinctly feminine and functional for women on the go. In addition to its stylish design, it serves many purposes as well. The company that produces this laptop bag gives a generous portion to cancer charity- - the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The Madison Tote was designed for women by women. Ladies, I'm sure you've heard all the jokes about how much "stuff" women carry in their purses. In the Madison tote, there is plenty of room to keep all of your mobile gear and gadgets as well as keeping them secure along with all your other necessities of life. It measures 18" x 15" x 5".

Now, here's a bag that is not your average laptop bag. It's called the Lexie Barnes Echo 13 Bali Hai which is a nicely designed laptop bag that looks more like an oversized shoulder bag. Constructed from water resistant fabric, it has a dual closing zipper that makes it easy to get your laptop out. You can carry your Mac book in this, as well. You're going to find the computer compartment is padded and the accessory pockets are quite discreet. There are two outer pockets, one for files and the other for power cords and accessories. It measures 13.5" x 10" x 1.5" and weighs only 1.3 pounds. The Sienna Messenger Style Laptop Bag will definitely appeal to those looking for a "girly" laptop bag. It combines femininity along with a very classy look. It has a silk brocade exterior that is sure to appeal to almost any taste. If you're looking for compliments, this is the one to get! It's very sturdy, yet very fashionable and comes with shoulder straps that are well padded and comfortable enough to carry even a heavy laptop. It measures 15.7 inches long by 12.7 inches high and 3.9 inches wide.

The Moonsus Allure 12" Computer Bag looks more like an older-style purse than a laptop bag. It measures 15.5" x 12" x 3.5" and will carry laptops that are 12" x 9" x 2". Complete with European grained-leather trim, your notebook will be protected in a padded computer sleeve and you will have room for all your accessories, as well. If you're looking for something that offers more than meets the eye, then you simply must have a look at the Clava Laptop Tote. It's great looking and can fit larger laptops, and as well has the ability to fit all of your accessories and files. It has three sections in one, which fits the removable laptop sleeve and provides additional protection for your laptop. It's fully lined and has padded shoulder straps. The Latico Convertible Laptop Bag is a laptop case for women who want the option of carrying a backpack or carrying a laptop case with a shoulder bag. You'll enjoy a padded compartment in addition to two interior compartments for additional mobile gear. Complete with a flap opening and pocket for paperwork or tickets on the exterior of the flap, it measures 16" x 4" x 11.5". The Targus Elegant Leather Tote is made of fine red leather and will fit your wide screen laptop up to 15-inch displays. It weighs only 2.94 pounds and is a top loading style with a lined and padded interior. Its handles are wide and easy on your shoulders. The interior includes a padded compartment for your laptop and lots of storage pockets for smaller gadgets. It measures 17" x 4.25" x 13". Lastly, you have the Slappa HardBody Pro Fliptop Case for Laptop, is a sturdy case that protects your laptop and other mobile gear. It has a hard body case and will fit 15-inch laptops and keep them secure. It comes with plenty of room for storing smaller gadgets and gear. Complete with all but inner lining, it also includes a portable mouse pad. The case dimensions are 15 inches wide by 13 inches high by 4 inches deep.

If you're a busy professional on the road nothing makes more of a fashion statement than neat new breakthrough designs in women's laptop carrying bags.

Facts You Should Know about Cleaning Your Laptop

Like any maintenance procedure with a laptop, it's best to learn what the recommended procedure is before you undertake cleaning your unit. If you're a frequent traveler, you may want to clean your laptop more than once a year. Most manufacturers recommend an annual cleaning only. Don't use any harsh cleaning agents or those which contain ammonia on any part of your expensive piece of equipment.

You're going to find all kinds of goodies that build up on the inside of your laptop including pet hair and dander, cigarette ashes, crumbs and dust. The dirt will mar your display and affect the performance of your fans, and block or cause other problems with your I/O ports. You're going to need a few basic tools to undertake a cleaning. To start with, go into your local computer supply store and get a can of compressed air. Find yourself some cotton swabs, cleaning solution and a soft cleaning cloth like from a cotton T-shirt. On the exterior, also use the soft, damp cloth for cleaning. Be careful to not use a scratchy or abrasive cleaning cloth. Refrain from using harsh cleaning products and never spray any cleaning solution directly into the casing, always spray it onto the cloth first.

One of the most critical parts of your laptop, obviously, is the display. Turn your laptop off for cleaning. This is an important item to remember. If you don't, dirt will accumulate more easily on the screen. Make sure you use the cotton T-shirt that is nonabrasive and never use paper towels or tissues to clean your display. Don't use any ammonia-based cleaners as they leave a film. You can always purchase monitor-cleaning solutions in pre-moistened wipes or spray cans. Always spray the cloth first, and then wipe the screen from left to right and then top to bottom. If you wish, you can make your own cleaning solution using Isopropyl alcohol and water. Mix one part water and one part alcohol.

To keep your cooling vents free of dust and debris, use your can of compressed air to clean them. A couple of tips when using compressed air are, make sure that you don't spray it too hard and don't get liquid on the fan blades. Use the cotton swabs to hold the fans in place while you clean them, and never spray directly on them. Wiping them without holding may cause them to over-spin and damage them.

The next step in your laptop cleaning procedure is to make sure that your I/O ports are clean. Use cotton swabs and wipe away large pieces of dirt that have accumulated. The compressed air can be used to blow the rest of the dirt away and remember to be careful to not blow dirt directly into the I/O ports.

And finally, the keyboard should be kept clean at all times. Regular cleaning will prevent your keys from sticking or malfunctioning, and always remember to do your best when it comes to keeping food and drink away from where you are working. Even if liquids are not spilled directly into the keyboard itself, residue remains on your fingers and will transfer to the keyboard. Use your can of compressed air to get rid of the dirt buildup. Consult your user manual first as your keys may actually be removable and this will make it much easier to clean. If you end up removing your keys, remember to put them back in the right place when reinstalling them. You can use your cotton swabs to clean in and around the keys as well.

Just a bit of maintenance and attention to detail on a fairly regular basis will extend the life of your laptop considerably more than if no maintenance is done at all. Like any piece of equipment, your laptop is no exception.

Cheapest Laptops - Go For Them

There can be no denying the fact that today a stage has come where one cannot visualize a world without computers. And why not, after all computers have ensured that one reaches any part of the world at the click of a mouse. Gone are the days when one had to wait for days to receive a letter, now letters are received as soon as they are 'mailed'. Everything, right from storing of files to preparing duplicate copies, have been simplified.

But as it is said, and rightly too, that human beings are funny creatures and that they are rarely satisfied by anything so after computers, or desktops as they are so called, another variety of it came in the market which is popularly known as laptops.

It became an instant hit with the masses. The biggest asset of it of course is that it can be easily carried from one place to another. If one carefully observes the word 'Laptop' one will realise that it has been coined after lot of deliberation and is very apt. One can take laptops to any place, put it on his lap and start working. Surely nothing can get simpler than this.

However, one should always try to buy cheap laptops but without compromising on its quality. One can also opt for used laptops as they can be purchased for far less. But here also one should be very clear that laptop one is purchasing does not have any defect. Laptops are also available in the market at discount rates. One could opt for them as well but only after being convinced that there is no defect in the product. If one buys a laptop after thoroughly checking it then there is no reason why one would not be proud on ones purchase.