Factors That Need To Be Considered When Buying a PC or Laptop For Your Course

PC’s and laptop’s can be complicated at the best of times. However whether you’re a techno-phobe or a techno-genius, there’s a wide range of computers that can facilitate your working needs down to a ground, or rather to the lap/desk.
And there in itself is the question. Do you want to be working from your lap or desk?

If you’re of a permanent minded persuasion then maybe a PC is for you. After all you can bring the information from that PC anywhere with a memory stick and boot it up on any other computer.

However you can do the exact same with a laptop- and so much more.

I will say this for PC’s though; they’re a good investment for a household with a family. The petty fights over who owns it doesn’t come into the equation as much when said object has a permanent place in the family office. They are also cheaper and easier to upgrade.

Yet I believe laptops are truly becoming the ‘personal computers’.

Let’s be realistic- There are endless factors to consider when buying a computer if you include all the brand models, the packages, the accessories etc. What you need to do before purchasing computer is ask yourself,

“What will I actually be using this machine for?”

Now in relation to a student doing an applied psychology course, this helps narrow down the field of choice a little bit.

First and foremost- Cost. To get all the features you need you want to know how much it will set you back and what should you be expecting to pay regardless.

Most decent laptops (I’ve moved away subtly from PC’s as I believe laptops are much more relative to students than desktops) range from around €400 to as much as €1,000 euro (top of the range models) usually excluding extras.

Now bear in mind if you buy a seemingly good laptop for €200 you could end up spending €400 on add-on’s such as virus protection, word processing etc.
If the price is right there are still other factors to contend with. Does your laptop have a decent memory?

So let’s differentiate between the two types of memory on computers. Firstly you have your hardrive. This is a permanent, non- detachable memory hardwired into your computer. When you click save on a document it is saved onto the hardrive, so if the computer breaks down those files won’t be lost.

Secondly you have RAM (random access memory) files that are sent to a chip by electrical charges that keep the files together, however if this connection is broken the files are lost. The main advantage of RAM memory is that it can be upgraded i.e. you can remove the chips and replace them with chips with a higher number of MB’s (megabytes).

All computers contain both types of memory.

The hardrive on laptops these days should at least be 150 gigabytes if not much more. RAM should be 2GB’S (gigabytes) and be able to upgradable to at least 4 GB’s.
Next you need to consider the accessories you may need on your laptop. As I mentioned before you’ll need extras such a decent word processor (e.g. Microsoft Office 2007) and anti-virus protection (you won’t be able to necessarily download an appropriate one for free- best get it with the deal.)

Apart from software you may need a printer. The beauty of being a student is that most colleges provide more than adequate printing facilities so this may just be a little luxury for convenience in your room. That is to say not necessary.
What is necessary is at least one form of external memory storage- It can be a memory card, memory stick or a c.d. These inexpensive items will save you hours of hardship if you correctly copy your work from laptop to stick.

Size isn’t a major issue but just maybe a little footnote to keep in mind- 10 inches, although compact is quite a small screen. And at the other end 17 inches is much too awkward for class. 13 to 15 inches should do nicely.
Another seemingly small issue but will save you a lot of hassle is investing in a decent laptop bag. Something padded, with a durable strap and a lock is what’s needed. Don’t just carry it in your rucksack as anything could happen to it.

As for the looming question of Apple or Windows, keep this in mind. Apples are sleeker, and provide more programs for sound engineering work, art portfolio’s etc. yet you do get what you pay for. They are expensive. And for this type of course
unnecessary

As for Windows, it’s used more widely and people find it generally easier to manage, plus it gets the job done. Don’t be influenced by a brand name (That goes for computer makes also e.g. Dells, Acers etc.) Be influenced by what you need your machine to do.

The last issues you need to consider are how supportive are the people supplying you the laptop. Are they reputable? Are they easy to contact? Have they thrown in extras? Are they speedy with repair? Do they provide you with sound advice? If in doubt, browse around. You stand to lose everything if you purchase the first bargain you see.

Summary of article "Renewable Energy Technologies "- ICT 2009

In recent years the world has become aware of itself. That is to say the planet and the people on it. We knew burning fossil fuels, releasing CFC gases into the environment and general global warming was bad.

But we didn’t know to what extent. Now we do. Ireland is suffering from floods not seen in decades. Further afield the ice caps are melting, tsunamis and hurricanes are becoming commonplace and the earth seems to be fighting a losing battle with the sun’s U.V rays as our ozone layer is needled with polluted holes.

What can we do to stop the seemingly doomed outcome? That is what this article summary will tell you;

Wind and solar energy are examples of renewable energy sources. That means they can be used over and over again to power our machines and they will never run out. They are clean, infinite and most importantly free. No lives have to be torn asunder to harvest them (fighting over oil for example).

Solar energy can be used for heat, light and generating electricity. How is this done? Putting solar shingles on a rooftop or installing solar panels will absorb the energy.

Wind energy is harnessed, by means of wind turbines, along with the sun’s heat to help evaporate water in order for it to become rain. As it flows downhill its energy can be caught using hydroelectric power.

The organic matter in plants is called biomass, which can be used in bioenergy to create electricity and fuels.

Although hydrogen is plentiful on the earth it doesn’t exist as a gas on its own because it always combines itself with other atoms to form molecules, such as water (H20). If it’s contained on its own it can used for fuel or converted to electricity.

Heat can also be found in geothermal energy, which is the earth’s own internal heat. It can be used for electricity and heating and cooling systems.

The ocean is pulled by the moon and the sun. This is tidal energy. By harvesting this energy it can be used to create electricity. Others ways its energy can be used for this is the wind’s influence on it and the sun’s. The surface is heated more than its depths, by the sun, which presents another energy source.

The most noticeable feature of all these innovative methods of eco-friendly energy production is that they all seem to offer a solution and choice to electricity production. And how could the rest of our modern technology exist if not without electricity? Our computers, televisions, lights, phones, defibrillator’s, almost everything we use to aid us in this world are powered by electricity.

That should be reason enough to want to have the most environmentally friendly one available. We’re spoiled for choice!

Link to article;

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/tech/home

Summary of article “Virtual Worlds Online”- ICT 2009

Virtual worlds are a way for millions of people to enter a virtual reality world and play with and meet other people.

The way in which people navigate their way through these worlds is by means of avatar; a 3D animated character which can walk, talk and generally engage in alternate world activities (such as dancing, hanging out etc.)

Although these worlds are intended to be completely recreational, users often find it hard to discern reality from these online universes after a time. They can become addicted and because users come from all over the world they can all potentially bring aspects of their personality into these games, which may not always necessarily be a good thing.

It’s been noted that many people who use these online worlds (be they blogs, chat rooms, social networking sites or in this case virtual worlds) are usually people who find it difficult to connect and socialise with people in the real world. This is due to the security that they don’t have to meet these people face to face. It’s all within an environment where they are in control.

The darker side of these worlds is that they present a perfect breeding ground for targeting children, stalking users, or exchanging illegal materials. Although there are rules and etiquette in place to monitor people’s behaviour and actions, there are always ways to get around the rules if they really want to.

Even though these worlds aren’t technically real the threats they pose can be. Parents have to be aware of what they’re kids are getting up to on the net, whether it’s ‘Second Life’, ‘Bebo’ etc. There can never be enough monitoring going on where children are concerned.

Because the creators continually try to alter the worlds and make them better, people have literally infinite choices and planes to explore.

All that aside virtual worlds can be fun, exciting and a break from the stresses and strains of life. Your avatar can relax and socialise, while being guided by you and you in return get to meet new people/personalities!

The biggest tip I can offer is always be aware. If another player is making you uncomfortable in any way, walk away and if possible report their behaviour. No one has any right to bully or infringe upon you whether its virtually or in reality.

Link to article;
http://www.virtualworldsinfo.com

Relevant Links To Psychology websites

Although this blog is mainly about charitable causes and organisations, it’s important to gain an understanding of human nature, in my opinion, in order to become more empathetic to humanity.

Here some links to some psychology sites that may help you gain a better understanding of the science. Psychology is a vast subject taking in people in all their forms. There are many types of psychologists and types of people they treat/study.

A.P.A Online

http://www.apa.org

The Psychological Society of Ireland

http://www.psihq.ie

AllPsych Online

http://allpsych.com

Be HumanKind

Be aware. Be Moved. Be Involved.

BE HUMANKIND.

Oxfam is an exemplary charity worth giving credit to. They're persistence in the quest for human rights are astounding and moving. This video was created to show people that anyone can make a difference. All you have to do is speak out against those that do wrong to others. Injustice is rife in this world. Let us be part of the solution, not the problem. Because it’s when ordinary folks let monstrosities around them happen that injustice prevails.

Let's BrEAsT Cancer

Last month, as you are aware, was Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout the course of October thousands of people could be seen sporting the unforgettable pink ribbon in a show of support to the continuing battle against one of man's most evil enemies.

Everyday people lose their battle with the Cancer but further and further research means that new treatments and medicines are providing more permanent forms of eradication.

Carla, a stay at home mother of three, contracted breast cancer. It was common knowledge in the neighbourhood where she lived. A year ago she had gone to get a routine checkup, and a lump, in the early stages of malignent growth, was found.

Since then her family have poured their savings into her treatment, aggressively attacking the cells that wanted to take over her whole system.

A year on, after a mastectomy and chemotherepy, she is exhuasted and frightened as she enters that little room, with her husband, where a doctor is waiting to tell them the outcome.

At home their oldest daughter, who is ten, is drawing a picture. Its of a big pink ribbon in the shape of a bow wrapped around the whole, smiling, family. Underneath she's scrawled 'forever'.

Carla and her husband enter the room weak with anxiety. Still underneath her uncertainty is a tiny ray of hope.

They sit opposite the doctor.

He surveys her gravely. Having been personally dedicated to her case since the beginning he understands the trauma of the battle she's been through.

Her eyes fill up with tears.

He breaks into a wide grin and tells her the news.

"All clear."

Over- whelming tears of relief and happiness spill down her face. Her husband whoops with glee.

They rush home to their extended families who are waiting on tenter hooks in the house.

They give them the news. Jubilation envelopes the house. They celebrate long into the night.

Carla was one of the lucky ones. But even as a survivor her path is unclear. There is still a chance the cancer could return or indeed new forms of it. But she remains positive. She remains in the all- clear.

For more information on Breast Cancer visit the Breast Cancer Awareness Month website at;

http://www.nbcam.org/

Ronan Keating, singer and the founder of the Marie Keating Foundation, has dedicated much of his life to raising awareness and money for breast cancer treatments and research. His mother tragically lost her battle to breast cancer but through the empowering work of this charity its doing all it can to stop breast cancer in its tracks. "Making cancer less frightening by enlightening."

For more information visit;

http://www.mariekeating.ie

This blog concentrated mainly on Breast Cancer; for more information on other cancer's and the advancements they're making in treating and preventing it please visit the Irsih Cancer Society at;

http://www.cancer.ie

Together we can Beat Cancer.

Footprints In The Sand

This blog is about an uplifting and inspring video about the support given to those in need (brought to us by Sport Relief and sung by the amazing Leona lewis) based on the poem about God and his guidance through the tougher times in peoples lives. Whether you believe or not is irrelevent, as long as you understand the message this song is trying to get across;

" I promise you, I'm always there, when your heart is full of sorrow and despair, and I'll carry you, when you need a friend. You'll find my foorprints in the sand".

The video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d08X2lN669k

For more information on Sport Relief and the work they do: http://www.sportrelief.com/

The original poem, by Mary Stevenson, is written below;

Footprints in the Sand

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,

other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed

that during the low periods of my life,

when I was suffering from

anguish, sorrow or defeat,

I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord,

"You promised me Lord,

that if I followed you,

you would walk with me always.

But I have noticed that during

the most trying periods of my life

there have only been one

set of footprints in the sand.

Why, when I needed you most,

you have not been there for me?"

The Lord replied,

"The times when you have

seen only one set of footprints in the sand,

is when I carried you."

-Mary Stevenson