Random Software Articles

Scanner Review

Sun, 23 Oct 2005 00:00:00 -0500

Are you having a hard time trying to decide on what kind of scanner to buy? Here are some scanner samples you can choose from.

There are different types of scanners. A flatbed scanner is used to convert any printed or reasonably flat material, such as photographs, into digital image. A document scanner is used to create digital records of a range of documents, especially for paper office documents. The film scanner enables you to scan film.

Canon CanoScan 8400F is a flatbed scanner with 3,200 dots per inch (dpi) optical resolution. It has four buttons located on the front part that automates some scanning function. The connection is via USB 2.0. It scans an actual area of 8.5 inch by 11.2 inch. Its transparency adaptor can scan one strip of medium-format film. It offers two modes, simple and advanced. Of course, the advanced mode produces the better scan. For $150 you get a very quiet scanner. However, it does not have the ability to reproduce a long tonal scale and it only works with Windows XP.

Another flatbed scanner is the Epson Perfection 4870 PHOTO with specs that call for 4,870 dpi. It has a transparency adaptor that will scan 35 mm or medium format film, either negatives or slides. This one offers three modes, full auto mode, home mode and preview mode. The full auto mode is the simplest and easiest. The home mode offers you eight different types of originals and allows you to set your resolution and image type. The preview mode allows you to manipulate your image with few limited adjustments. It’s compatible with Kodak Digital ICE Technology. You get a fast scanner for only $450.

For $600, you can have a Microtek ScanMaker i900 with 5-inch by 14-inch scanning bed. This flatbed uses a dual-scan technology for scanning film. It connects via FireWire or USB 2.0. It comes with ScanWizard Pro software and uses ICE technology, a very good tool for photographers.

Super Coolscan 5000 ED is a 4,000 dpi film scanner with a new light source and a new ED lens. It offers an 8-bit mode and Scan Image Enhancement technology, and incorporates fourth-generation ICE technology. This one can give you a clean scan for a price of $1,050.

If you need a scanner that will enable you to scan an old film, use the Microtek ArtixScan 120tf. This film scanner is similar to Nikon 9000 ED and can scan medium-format film up to 6 cm by 9 cm. Only, it does not have the ICE technology. It has SilverFast software that offers smart removal defects (SRD). You can connect it through a Firewire or SCSI-2.

Imacon Flextight 646 is a high performance machine that will give you a high quality scan for a high price of $9,995. It comes with FlexColor software and has no ICE technology. It requires the highest level of operator skill. This scanner picks up every flaw in your film.

In choosing a scanner, consider your budget and the features the scanner offers. Your scanned images will tell the tale.

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Source: http://www.articletrader.com

10 reasons why Vista is much more than a spoon full of sugar

Thu, 02 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600

Every new operating system comes with advanced and much improved features. What is exciting to some is not so to others. Basically within a new system each user has his or her own individual preferences. Windows Vista or Longhorn as it was first known is a replacement for XP and is the “new” desk operating system scheduled to be launched by December 2006.

Descriptions of Vista are glowing; it is seen as a vision of the future. High definition graphics, the ‘z’ level in organization, greater clarity, unbelievable security, and boundless thinking power are what it is about. The operating system is set to fulfill all needs, it has a secure and speedy start up, not just when booting but also when returning to active status from standby mode; improved and strengthened driver design which protects the os from crashing when other things go wrong; and an antiphishing device or filter that identifies and confirms phishing sites by using a dynamically updated database. Technically, the Vista uses an image-based installation thereby facilitating deployments by IT professionals. An advanced event log simplifies administrative tasks.

The October 2005 new test build of Windows Vista has fulfilled expectations by incorporating several new IE 7.0 features, new networking and diagnostic functions. Of all the most significant is the incorporation of the core of Microsoft’s Antispyware product in Vista. A key feature of the Vista system is deployment, the inter-dependent modules permits easy customization of Vista to fit individual needs. The WIM format allows a single image to be used or accessed by different computer hardware irrespective of individual language requirements, you can easily add or remove drivers, include updates and windows components offline without having to boot the operating system image.

The system comes with features like:

1. A new graphics engine that has easy navigation, toolbars with inbuilt intuition, high resolution graphics, movie action that is better that real-life, and easy to learn tools.

2. Revamped Windows Explorer with a next generation navigation structure, tool bars, and icons. The user friendly design incorporates clear glowing buttons and an interface that can captivate a user for hours together.

3. Virtual folders offer permanent storage with dynamic interaction possibilities.

4. The user account protection features shield you from rouge programs and security risk.

5. The system ensures easy installation of programs with “Click Once.” This energizes an installation experience by lending the function speed and security.
6. Error messages are handled by “Task Dialogues” an integral diagnostics that warns of a problem and helps with a solution.

7. New and improved technologies include, PNRP, Peer Name Resolution Protocol, a brand new technological revolution that enables applications to find and connect to one another; WWAN, a router; WLAN, indoor connector; VLAN, allows LANS to communicate; Wi - Fi, deals with radio frequencies.

8. A system where snap-ins to MMC can be moved up or down as per convenience.

9. Has XImage which is non-destructive.

10. Improved up-time with an automatic Restart Manager.

According to computer experts, Vista conquers new horizons while it takes technology into a new realm. It introduces joys of working along with hum drums like increased productivity. Whether or not the features commented upon and tested by many techies across the world will be incorporated in the final version of Vista is not certain as it will be decided by Microsoft based on surveys, marketing projections, costs, and technical reasons.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com, the premier website to find Free Software Downloads including free anti-virus software, free spyware detection software, free toolbars, free chat software and more. He also freelances for http://www.1888FreeOnlineGames.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

12 Essential new features of Office 12

Thu, 02 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600

The final version of Office 12 is slated for release in mid 2006. Although Microsoft is yet to confirm what the final version of Office 12 will include, the broad areas that have been the focus of change are productivity, handling of business information, managing of documents, and enhanced user friendliness.

1. All programs like Word, Excel, and Power Point have a new look. The new user interface has a ribbon of frequently used commands and operations which will enhance usability instead of drop down menus.

2. The server based capabilities include document rights and work flow management.

3. In the case of the revamped Excel, it will support SQL Server 2005, and have much awaited features like greater spreadsheet capacity, tools for sorting and filtering, as well as extensive data visualization capabilities. The user will be able to access, analyze, and share information securely and easily not just within the system but between databases and enterprise applications.

4. The new system will support sharing of workspaces and exchange of information across corporate boundaries. Incorporating P2P capabilities, the system it all set to take a giant leap forward.

5. One aspect under consideration is “out-of –the-box secure enterprise instant messaging.”

6. Deeper incorporation of XML will make the system a development platform. Developers will be able to create software that interoperates with the system without hitches.

7. Specially designed Contextual Command Tabs. These will only appear when a user is all set to modify a document or Excel sheet. Just clicking on the page will call up the Command Tab with relevant tools for making changes.

8. Galleries is an innovation that is promoted as the ‘heart’ of the redesigned applications. In this the user will be able to see how his document will shape up. This will simplify the process of creating professionally layed out documents.

9. A system known as Live Preview is a brand new technology that will enable the user to view in a gallery the editing or changed formatting executed on a document.

10. Faster document authoring will be possible with incorporation of custom built layouts and slide libraries. Through SharePoint the user will also be able to store their personal slides and layouts in this function. The system is designed so that it can be accessed offline.

11. Rapid email and document searching will become feasible through the Fast Search technology in Vista (Longhorn).

12. Using new innovations in integrated technologies the system will support multiparty audio, video, as well as data collaboration.

The system is designed to run on Windows XP Service Pack 2, or Longhorn client, or updated versions of windows with at least an SQL server 2000. Office 12 will support x64 platforms but it is not certain whether the support will be shipped with Office 12 or separately.

The very purpose of Office 12 according to Microsoft is to make life easy for users with better presentation, organization, and capabilities.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com, the premier website to find Free Software Downloads including free anti-virus software, free spyware detection software, free toolbars, free chat software and more. He also freelances for http://www.1888FreeOnlineGames.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Tips to protect your PC files from external attack

Fri, 10 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0600

Essential to peace of mind is protecting the PC and your online privacy. When connected to the web, your work and data is open to attacks of various kinds including harmful downloads. A simple game, picture, or program may be the vehicle for malevolence. So, you need to check whether every file that you download, open, or save, is safe or whether there are irregularities of any kind.

Protect your PC by:

• Blocking hackers and viruses by installing the latest firewall and antivirus software. It is advisable to install a software firewall even if you have a hardware firewall in your system. A software firewall is designed to query whether or not it should permit “X,” access. The user can specify which applications can access the port and which cannot. A bi-directional firewall such as ZoneAlarm3 and Personal Firewall 5 will monitor both inbound and outbound traffic preventing Trojans and backdoor programs from functioning.

• Block downloads that install unwanted programs by using the options in Internet explorer to block all software from source X specified by you.

• Install software programs that will constantly scan your PC for spyware, adware, dialers, and web bug traces which can create a nuisance and cause crashes, slow down systems, or steal financial information. By adding a schedule you can instruct NoAdware to automatically scan your PC at set times for in-filtrations.

• Immunize your PC and prevent malicious add ons to your system.

• Configure your PC browser to protect you when you are working online. Use a ‘real time shield’ and prevent intrusions. Be sure to click the “protect IE Favorites” box and ensure that no thief can add an URL without your permission to your browser’s favorites list. This will block offensive and dangerous websites from entering your PC environs.

• Say “no” to any web address or site that instructs you to download specific software to view their pages. Such software can contain a virus, Trojan horse, or auto dialer.

• Create a regular back up schedule for your work. Once a week is ideal if you are a virtual worker or running a business. This will minimize any damage should problems arise.

• Be sure to update your software with the latest patches and bug fixes. Then use the updated or enhanced security settings provided by the updates. There are in built ways which you can operate to block damaging viruses, stamp out cookies, and keep unwanted visitors away from your computer system. The method is easy for example if you are using Internet Explorer just go to Tools-Internet Options-Privacy tab. Click the edit button to accept or reject a specific cookie. Go to the advanced settings and check block third party cookies.

• Scan all downloaded files before use. Never launch executable or scriptable files namely those that have dot.exe; .bat ;.doc; .vbs extensions. Do not access attachments of any kind before they are certified as safe.

• Remove file sharing and windows printer options these increase vulnerability of the PC.

• Encrypt your e-mail and embed an identifying key.

Better be sure than sorry. Preventing snoops is easier than trying to recover after an attack. Take informed steps to protect yourself and your PC.

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Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888Discuss.com/software-download/ , the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion forum for Software Download Forum including topics on all about software, download, spyware, freeware, shareware and more. He also freelances for the premier Software Download Site http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

How to Tweak Windows XP

Sat, 18 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0600

Tweaking Windows XP for better Performance

Change Menu Show Delay

Windows delays menus before they are displayed.
For most users this delay can be too much, we can change the delay time or remove it altogether.
First Open the Registry Editor by following the steps below:

-- Click Start
-- Run
-- Type Regedit

Once Open find the path listed below:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER / Control Panel / Desktop

Once there, find MenuShowDelay and set it's value to equal the delay you would like before the menus are shown.
Value Data: 0-999 (milliseconds)

400 Default
200 Works for most people

0 No Delay
Changes will take effect upon reboot.

Shutdown Speed

By altering a few registry settings, you can dramatically decrease the amount of time it takes for Windows to shut down.

Open the Registry Editor (if it isn't open already)

Find the path listed below:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER / Control Panel / Desktop

Once there, find HungAppTimeout and make sure its value is set to 5000 (default)

In the same folder, find WaitToKillAppTimeout. Set this to 4000 (default is 20000)

Windows XP Prefetcher Settings

Prefetcher monitors which programs initialize when Windows boots, then in future, fetches them quickly.

Prefetcher is enabled by default, but we can improve its performance.

Again Run Registry Editor (if it isn't already open)

Find the path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE / SYSTEM / CurrentControlSet / Control / Session Manager / Memory Management / PrefetchParameters

Find the value EnablePrefetcher. Default, it will be set to 3. We recommended setting the prefetcher to 5. Feel free to play around with it and find out what works best for you.

Disable Windows error reporting

One feature that most can do without is error reporting. Every time a program crashes it tries to send a report to Microsoft. Read below to find out how to disable this feature.

* Open control panel
* Click on performance and maintenance
* Click on system
* Then click on the advanced tab
* Click on the error reporting button on the bottom of the windows
* Select disable error reporting
* Click ok

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Author: PCDoctor http://www.antigeeksquad.com Source: http://www.antigeeksquad.com/tweak.html

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

How to install Slax to USB

Sat, 18 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0600

This walkthrough will illustrate how to install a SLAX compilation to a USB stick through windows.

You'll need the following:

* 256MB or larger USB Stick (128MB will work w/frodo or popcorn Slax)
* HP USB tool (for formatting the stick)
* A Live Slackware Linux compilation (Slax 5.0.6 was used in this demo)
* Winrar (or another ISO extracting application)
* Syslinux V2.11

1: The first step is to Download the HP USB tool and format your stick with the tool using the FAT option (quick format is fine)

2: Open your Slax 5.0.6 ISO using winrar. Extract the files from the ISO to your USB stick.

3: Open the boot directory on the USB stick and copy those files to the main (root) of the USB stick.

4: Download and extract syslinux.zip to a directory on your computer.

5: Run the command prompt in windows (start/run/cmd) and CD to the syslinux directory. Once there simply type syslinux.exe F: (F: being the example drive letter of the USB stick in this system)

6: Download the syslinux.cfg file and extract to your USB stick.

7: Reboot your PC and go into your system BIOS and set your boot order to boot from any selectable USB device. (example USBZIP, USBFLOPPY, USBHD)

8: Save your BIOS settings. On the next reboot, you should have a sucessful launch of your USB Linux compilation.

There are many other options, but this was meant to be a simple walkthrough just to get you up and running.
I typically use more than one partition on my sticks to better utilize my storage space which also makes for an easier configsave/configrestore

We will discuss this later on in more detail.

~Pendrivedoc~

Source: http://www.antigeeksquad.com/slax.html

Original Post located at: http://www.Pendrivelinux.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

More than 20 years of Providing High Quality Tourism Management Software Systems

Mon, 10 Apr 2006 00:00:00 -0500

Established in 1982, started as a private software house under the parent company of Formula Vision Technologies, Ltd., specializing in the development, marketing and implementation of computer applications for the air transport and travel industry markets for the use of airlines, tour operators, tourist services and distribution networks. Formula Vision is a Managing holding company for emerging companies who develop and promote Proprietary IT Solutions targeting International Markets. The Formula Group is one of the largest software groups, operating internationally.

Now, Formula Travel Solutions, Ltd. (FTS) is a leading technology company, providing advanced software solutions for the travel industry. Tour operators, wholesalers and airlines use the company’s products, as smart marketing and management tools, creating competitive advantages through technology.

FTS has earned its reputation through its commitment to high quality products, excellent service and customer satisfaction. All team members are experts in their fields; listening carefully to their customers' needs. With over 20 years of experience in travel management, technology and software development, FTS has provided its worldwide customers with solutions that have enhanced their businesses and improved their positions in the market. FTS has accumulated vast and valuable know-how and experience in information systems, state-of-the-art technology in airline and travel industry commercial operation. Their expertise and products are successfully distributed on five continents.

FTS has earned its reputation as a leading software house by its commitment to the development of high quality products, such as the AMSYS 2000, an airline management system for low-cost and charter airlines; and the TOPAX Management, a complete platform of integrated products, providing solutions for all business and operational requirements: management, distribution and connectivity. The TOPAX major breakthrough in travel management has helped companies transform their businesses into powerful distribution platforms, inventing new possibilities and providing them with a truly competitive edge.

FTS is a Formula Group company; a global software group with more than 4,000 professionals, providing a broad range of IT solutions and complementary services to customers in more than fifty countries. FTS is represented by three offices including Area Sales and Regional Sales.

FTS clients include: Asian Trails, Turismo Thai, C.C.T. Corporation, Federal, Travex, Jet Tour, and I.T.C., all of Thailand; Israir, Aviation Links, , Sky International Tours, Holiday Lines, Arkia, Isram, Amiel, Open Sky, and Caspi Aviation, all of Israel; Valuair and Kenair of Singapore; Pegas of Russia; Sata Air Acores of Portugal;; I Explore of Australia;; and Cairo Express, Destination, Eastmar Tours, Escapade Travel, Gezira Travel, Midland, Sakkara, South Sinai, and Travco, all of Egypt and NOUVELLES FRONTIERES of France

FTS is partnered with IBM, and Microsoft and is also an Extraordinary Member of the European Regional Airlines Association (ERA).

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This article was written by http://www.formula-travel.com/. Formula Travel Solutions is the leading technology provider of advanced tour operator software and Airline Systems. Formula Travel offers the most comprehensive technology solutions for Tour Operators, Wholesalers and Airlines. Reproductions of this article are encouraged but must include a link back to http://www.formula-travel.com/

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Screensavers - Live Flowers On Your Screen

Thu, 27 Apr 2006 00:00:00 -0500

Most of you must know about screensavers. A screensaver was normally used to save the screen against prolonged non-use. You can set the time after which the screensaver appears on your screen and protect your screen. Now they are not required for this purpose. But you can still enjoy them whenever you want and relax.

Most of the screensavers are made either with static wallpapers appearing one after other or three-dimensional designs. The latest innovation is live video. In this kind of screensaver, video shots of live objects are taken, edited and made into a revolving film. The film is then given effects and converted to flash. This flash movie, when added to installer, becomes a screensaver.

Now you can view live flowers dancing in the garden on your desktop. With innovation in technology and artistry, the quality of the shot gets enhanced when converted in flash. Installing and uninstalling such screensavers is simple. A click of mouse does that.
Download few screensavers with live flowers on your machines and watch them whenever you are getting bored or tired. Live music accompanies the screensaver adding to the relaxing power.

You can view some of the screensavers and downlod from here - Free Flowers Screensavers and Flowers Screensavers. Chose colors that you love. You can also choose flower screensavers with romantic or inspirational text. Bring the beauty of flowers to your desktops and relax with the soothing sight and music.

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CDMohatta writes content for animated screensavers. The designs include - flower screensavers and love screensavers.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Screensavers - How To Inspire Yourself With Your Own Text

Mon, 01 May 2006 00:00:00 -0500

You have been using Screensavers till now. Did you know that you could interact with them? Yes, you can do that now. Do you wish to write your text and read it on a screensaver? You can change the text whenever you want. And it is all for free. Many of us always wished to see our own thoughts on the screensavers but could not do that. With a new range of interactive screensavers, this is easy to do.

Download interactive screensavers and install them. The saver has got an icon saying put your test here. Write your text and save. Play the screensaver and you will view your own text. Such screensavers can be used to write your thought, your quotes, your inspirational messages and your romantic thoughts.

The screensavers come in many designs. You have the freedom to select and download as many as you wish. For screensavers with theme of heart, write love text, and for other screensavers with nature themes, write inspirational text.

Reading one's own thoughts again and again helps in many different ways. Repetitions is the mother of learning. Writing and reading text that makes us feel good changes our thoughts and mood. Use such screensavers when you are working on a difficult project. Send them with your message written separately to your sweetheart. Send them with inspiring text to any friend who needs little inspiration. You can use them in many ways. The screensavers are available free for you to use as you wish. It all depends on your creativity now. you will find a big collection here - Download Free Your Text Here Screensavers

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CDMohatta writes content for interactive screensavers and your text here screensavers.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Halloween Screensavers

Mon, 01 May 2006 00:00:00 -0500

Halloween is a festival of great popularity. People of all the age groups enjoy Halloween and every one loves it. Because it is fun and only fun.

During Halloween everyone wants to love the fear and the fun. How can those working on computers be away from that? Because during Halloween Internet offers many free goodies. You get ecards, Desktop wallpapers and Screensavers all free. Download and enjoy. Send, share and enjoy. Have fun, because it is Halloween.

Getting good screensavers for Halloween is a matter of good search. As most of the screensavers weigh a lot, downloading takes some time. If you do not like your selection, you have to download another. Therefore search for a site of good reputation. Choose few of them and download.

Now you can get Halloween screensavers with calendars on them. You cannot only watch the dates but the designs are equally mesmerizing. You will get a large collection of screensavers with calendars not only for Halloween but all major festivals. They are all in flash with video and the text is absolutely lovely. Please view some here - Halloween Screensavers with Calendar
and Halloween Screensavers . To download Holiday Screensavers click here - Holidays Screensavers

Holidays are to be enjoyed. One should forget work for that day and rejuvenate oneself. The enjoyment fights with our stress and gives us a new freshness. Halloween is one such festival. Screensavers for Halloween will not only scare you but also those who pass by you and watch the screensaver.

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CDMohatta writes text for free holiday screensavers including free halloween screensavers.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com