Tuesday, February 2, 2010

How to Install Oracle Client 11g

These instructions apply to Microsoft Windows only. When you install Oracle database software (try installing Enterprise edition), by default it also installs Oracle client. So if you have installed Oracle database software in your machine and want to connect to your local database you simply invoke the Oracle Client and given the necessary login credentials and you are in. You do not have to worry much about setting up your sql*net configuration as the installation process should usually take care of that if you chose to do so.

But for people who want to access an Oracle database that is not local and in a remote machine then you must need to install Oracle client in your machine. Even if You do not want to use SQL*Plus but want to use TOAD or SQL Developer or something like that, you still need Oracle client. Because internally these database access/development tools use Oracle clients software to connect to the target database.

So the most important thing to remember is, you must need Oracle client software in your machine if you want to connect to a remote Oracle database.

Installing Oracle client is not difficult. You just need to be a bit careful. The step by step instructions below should help you to install an Oracle Client in your machine. These instructions assume that you have downloaded the Oracle client software that you desire to install and unzipped the zip file into some folder.

To make the instructions easy to understand I’ll explain what I did here:

1. Downlaoded Oracle Client Software from Oracle (zip file win32_11gR1_client.zip). This file is almost 500MB.

2. Unzipped win32_11gR1_client.zip into C:\win32_11gR1_client folder. A sub folder called “Client” is created under folder “c:\win32_11gR1_client”. Within the Client sub folder there is a file called setup.exe, this is the file I’ll run.

3. I want to install my Oracle Client in my D: disk drive.

System Requirement: Oracle client is not so much of a heavy software but still it needs significant amount of disk space. So make sure that you have at least 1GB free in your disk drive where you want to install your client.

1

Open Windows Explorer and navigate to c:\win32_11gR1_client\client

2

Run setup.exe (double click on it).

3

Wait until the following screen is displayed

Click Next on this screen

4

Select Administrator and then click Click Next button

5

Enter d:\oracle for Oracle Base

Click Next button

6

Click Next button again on this screen.

7

Click Install

8

The installation will now start as shown below.

Wait until the installation is 100% complete

9

The installation process will now try to configure Oracle Net Configuration.

Do not do anything. Wait until you get the following screen

10

Click Next

11

Click Finish

12

Click Exit

13

Click Yes

14

Done

DATA MINING –CONCEPT AND TECHNIQUES

DATA MINING –CONCEPT AND TECHNIQUES

INTRODUCTION
Data mining is the process of analyzing data from different perspectives and summarizing it into useful information - information that can be used to increase revenue, cut costs, or both. It allows users to analyze data from many different dimensions or angles, categorize it and summarize the relationships identified. It is the process of finding correlations or patterns among dozens of fields in large relational databases.

DATA, INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE

Data: Any facts, numbers, or text that can be processed by a computer is Data. Large amounts of data are being accumulated by the organizations in different formats and different databases. There are three types of data.

Operational or transactional data: This includes sales, cost, inventory, payroll, and accounting.

Non-operational data: Data from industry sales, forecast data, and macro economic data are considered non-operational.

Meta data: Data about the data itself. This includes logical database design or data dictionary definitions.

Information: Patterns, associations, or relationships among all the above type of data provide information of all the above types of data.

Knowledge: Information can be converted into knowledge about historical patterns and future trends. For example, a manufacturer or retailer could determine which items are most susceptible to promotional efforts.

FOUNDATIONS OF DATA MINING

Data mining techniques are the result of a long process of research and product development. This evolution began when business data was first stored on computers, continued with improvements in data access, and more recently, generated technologies that allow users to navigate through their data in real time. Data mining takes this evolutionary process beyond retrospective data access and navigation to prospective and proactive information delivery. Data mining is ready for application in the business community because it is supported by three technologies that are now sufficiently mature:

⃰ Massive data collection

⃰ Powerful multiprocessor computers

⃰ Data mining algorithms

ROLE OF DATA MINING

Companies with a strong consumer focus - retail, financial, communication and marketing organizations, primarily use data mining today. It enables these companies to analyze the relationships among "internal" factors such as price, product positioning, staff skills ,etc., and "external" factors such as economic indicators, technology, competition, and customer demographics in order to determine the impact on sales, customer satisfaction, and corporate profits.

Data mining helps the retailer to use point-of-sale records of customer purchases to send targeted promotions based on an individual's purchase history. By mining demographic data from comment or warranty cards, the retailer can develop products and promotions to appeal to specific customer segments. Data mining software analyzes relationships and patterns in stored transaction data based on the user queries. Software available for such analysis is: statistical, machine learning and neural networks. Four types of relationships are sought for this purpose. They are:

Classes: Stored data is used to locate data in predetermined groups. For example, a restaurant chain could mine customer purchase data to determine when customers visit and what they typically order. This in­formation can be used to increase traffic by having daily specials.

Clusters: Grouping of data items according to logical relationships or consumer preferences.

Associations: Data mining can be used to identify associations. Example-beer and diaper.

Sequential patterns: Data mining is used to determine behaviour pat­terns and trends. For example, an outdoor equipment retailer can pre­dict the likelihood of a backpack being purchased based on consumers’ purchase of sleeping bags and hiking shoes.

MAJOR ELEMENTS OF DATA MINING

· Extract, transform, and load transaction data

· Store and manage the data

· Provide data access

· Analyze the data by software.

· Present the data.

DATA MINING TECHNIQUES

The most commonly used techniques in data mining are:

Artificial neural networks: Non-linear predictive models that learn through training and resemble biological neural networks in structure.

Decision trees: Tree-shaped structures that represent sets of decisions. These decisions generate rules for the classification of a dataset. Specific decision tree methods include Classification and Regression Trees (CART) and Chi Square Automatic Interaction Detection (CHAID) .

Genetic algorithms: Optimization techniques that use process such as genetic combination, mutation, and natural selection in a design based on the concepts of evolution.

Nearest neighbor method: A technique that classifies each record in a dataset based on a combination of the classes of the k record(s) most similar to it in a historical dataset

Rule induction: The extraction of useful if-then rules from data based on statistical significance.

INFRASTRUCTURE REQUIRED

Today, data mining applications are available on all size systems for mainframe, client/server and PC platforms. System prices range from several thousand dollars for the smallest applications up to $1 million a terabyte for the largest. Enterprise-wide applications generally range in size from 10 gigabytes to over 11 terabytes. The factors that affect the system are:

Size of the database: the more data being processed and maintained, the more powerful the system required.

Query complexity: the more complex the queries and the greater the number of queries being processed, the more powerful the system required.

CONCLUSION

Most companies already collect and refine massive quantities of data. Data mining techniques can be implemented rapidly on existing software and hardware platforms to enhance the value of existing information resources, and can be integrated with new products and systems as they are brought on-line.

Use Of Windows 7 Compatibility Mode For Any Application Program

Now don’t be frustrated, if you have any application from older version which are finding difficult to run on Windows 7.

Windows 7 gives you option to run that program via Compatibility Mode .Many a time we often are caught under condition when our previous version of program don’t suit the new operating system. In that case we find our self very much helpless .To come over the problem use Windows 7 Compatibility Mode as follows .Open the program by making right click on the program’s shortcut, .exe file, or installation program .Open the properties Window .There are different tabs. Select “Compatibility.” Here search the option “Run this program in Compatibility Mode.” Check or uncheck the setting you required for running the program. If you want to rung the privilege level you can modify it.Now apply all these setting and click on "OK."

Implementing Windows 7 for Business Purpose

Most of the people are looking Windows 7as the operating system of this millennium. With the fabulous desktop, ability to upload the complete series of device driver for Vista and network security the new business generation is waiting with their breathe hold.

Hardware configuration: The high demanding configuration and poor driver support of Windows 7 are some of the hurdles in the feasibility. Hard drive of 20 GB and 1 GHZ processor as we know is the minimum. Obviously any business is related to the capital and so much demanding configuration will put some extra burden on their budget. Also the complexity of the operating system is causing slower boot of the system.

But limitations are everywhere. Let’s go into the positive aspects:

What we need in a Business, Simplicity in operating, privacy of our data and adaptability with different software. All these features are meeting the expectation of the user.

Touch-Screen: Now use your finger for working on computer give up the mouse. With Windows 7 and a touch – sensitive screen, you can browse online newspaper, flick through photo albums and shuffle files and folders. We are using the touch screen technology for years, but Windows 7extends it to every corner of your PC. The Start menu and taskbar now sport larger, fingertip-friendly icons. Familiar Windows 7 programs are also touch-ready. You can even finger paint in Paint! Windows Touch—available only in the Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate editions of Windows 7.Need to zoom in on a picture? Pinch your fingers together. Want to right-click on something? Touch it with one finger and tap the screen with a second on the screen.

As per the windows 7 networks security, you can apply a separate firewall profile to different network connection. Which is dynamic in function?

There are some quite specific tools which can provide extraordinary security, mention below :


Bit Locker : It caps your data from hackers or theft .How can you help protect your data from loss, theft, or hackers? The answer: Bit Locker. Bit Locker keep a security lock on your documents, it keep everything in encrypted form on external drive. You are even safe if you have misplaced your portable storage devices like USB flash drives and external drives.

Direct Access : In the corporate world lots of energy is spend on building Virtual private networks, now Windows 7brings the Direct Access to save your time and energy. It commits secure connection to remote client without dealing with VPNs. This is an quite innovative gift to mobile user and sufficient reason for switching to Windows 7.


App Locker :
Now corporate has a good management over their software. It will inhibit any unauthorized access to any program. Ordinary users will not be able to install new programs however they can run it. It organization can keep a track on their user if they are involved in malpractice such as playing with settings designed for Internet Explorer. App Locker addresses this problem and lets IT centrally configure who can run which application. App Locker checks each program against corporate policies when a user tries to start it. Though it can be difficult to implement in a large organization, IT can get some immediate benefits by rolling App Locker out to highly managed workstations.

User Account Control: In Windows 7, you can turn on User Account Control (UAC) without it displaying warnings for programs you started. This means no more screen-dimming each time you start the Microsoft Management Console — but you’re still alerted if a Web page tries to change system settings or install unauthorized programs. If you disabled UAC in Vista, do yourself a favor and turn it on again once you’ve moved toWindows 7.


Compatibility Mode:
Most of us face problems in Transition period. Because the earlier programs find it difficult to be suited with the new operating system. In such situation don’t lose your temper and make use of "Compatibility Mode" to run that particular software. This is easy to apply.

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Install a Driver for a Remote Printer on Your PC

Your Printer

is a peripheral which produces a hard copy of your documents that are stored in electronic form, usually on a physical print media such as paper. Do you know how to install a driver for a remote Printer on your PC? If you want to know it just take a little help from these given simple steps and you can install it all by yourself on your computer. You don’t need to drain your money for it. Just sit with it and invest some time from your busy schedule. So before stating you must remember that you must log on as an administrator when you update your Printer driver locally for a remote printer that is on a print server which is running on Microsoft Windows 2000 or Microsoft Windows XP.

Let’s start with Windows XP. You need to follow these steps to install your Printer driver locally on your Windows XP based computer. The steps are as follows:

  1. Firstly click Start, then click Control Panel. From there click Printers and Other Hardware, and then Printers and Faxes.
  2. Secondly, double-click on Add Printer option to start your Add Printer Wizard, and click Next.
  3. Thirdly click on to Local printer, clear, automatically detect and install check box, and click Next.
  4. Fourthly click Create a new port, and click Local Port in your Port type section.
  5. Fifthly in the Port Name box, type the path to the printer in this following format, where your server is the name of the print server and the printer is the name of your printer:

serverprinter

  1. Click Next and select your Windows 2000 or Windows XP driver for your printer.
  2. Click Next and follow the instructions to finish the wizard. You can even get more information about it from Internet.

If you have Windows 2000 based computer, you can follow these steps to install your Printer driver locally on a Windows 2000 computer:

  1. First click Start, point to Settings and Printers.
  2. Double-click on Add Printer to start your Add Printer Wizard.
  3. Click on My Computer and click Next.
  4. Click Add Port, then click Local Port, and click New Port.
  5. In your Port Name box, type your path to the printer in the following format, where your server is the name of your print server and the printer is the name of your printer:

serverprinter

  1. Lastly click OK, and click Close.

Your installation of driver for your remote Printer on your PC is complete. Now, you have to remember that while using this procedure, your print job is printed locally and then it is redirected to your network path. When you are using this procedure, you will not receive Printer updates from the print server when you are updating your Printer driver on the print server. You can get more information about this installation from Internet. Our Printer and Peripheral Support plays an important role in supporting your PC operations

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Make My Computer Faster Now - Tips to Speed Up Your Computer Right Away With a Few Simple Steps

Buying high end computers is not the only solution to having a fast computer at home or in your office. Not only it is expensive or costly but they slow down too like every other computer does eventually, leaving you wondering how to make my computer run faster.

One of the most effective ways to make your computer faster is by means of maintenance. Maintaining a well organized computer along with the hardware and software will increase the speed of your computer and at the same time save you some large expenses.

How can you make your computer faster through maintenance?

There are things you should remember that will easily help you make your computer faster:

#1 The first step is to make sure that your computer is free of dust. This means to clean the fans and to make sure air is circulating round the case properly. If it is not the system will start to overheat. The first symptom of this is that it will slow down and eventually it will start reporting errors.

#2 The second step is to defragment your files at least once a week depending on the usage of your computer. This will organize all your files properly.

You can do this by clicking on my computer and then right click on your hard drive(s), click on properties, a sub-menu will pop up, then click on tools and finally click on defragment Now. This will allow you to re-arrange your files so that your computer will find all the files quickly and the first time you run this it may take at least an hour to do the job.

#3 The third step is to download a free registry scanner software that will find any errors in the windows registry.

A registry scanner will help you find programs or software that is slowing down your computer. Malicious software like spyware and trojans hide their entries in your registry and even if you have an antivirus software this will not find the registry entries that keep them running.

If your registry becomes too big and as more and more entries are added this will slow your computer and even if you remove programs the registry entries are left behind.

The other problem is that if you have encountered hardware errors caused by overheating or other problems in the past and even caused by a power failure these will cause registry errors and corruption that will not repair itself. A registry scanner will find all these problems in minutes even if they have been sitting on your computer for months, leaving you wondering what is is going on.

#4 The fourth step is to fix and or delete these problems with a registry cleaner and this again will take a few seconds.

#5 The fifth and final step to make sure your PC runs at maximum speed is to close applications that you are not using.

If you have applications like skype, yahoo messenger, windows messenger, or anything else that is is not in use you might as well close them.

This will also make your computer faster, especially if you have multiple windows opened and doing all this will stop you asking how to make my computer run faster now.

If you have a slow computer here is the #1 solution for how to Make My Computer Run Faster this is guaranteed to make your PC faster, just click here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_S_Marshall

How to Solve Windows Registry Errors and Speed Up Your Computer in Under an Hour

All windows operating systems depend on a registry which contains all the data for your computer, or laptop. If there are errors, corrupted files, or other major problems within the registry windows will eventually have problems operating properly.

Resolving any windows registry errors manually can be very hard unless you know what you are doing

A registry with problems cannot access what it needs immediately and spends time looking for the files, or even loses them altogether because it cannot find where they are or how to run them.

The implication of this is that windows itself will not find the files or programs either and this means that you will see constant errors and programs will fail to run, unless you fix these errors.

How Do you fix these errors quickly?

#1 Run a free registry scanner which you can download off the internet and find the problems.

#2 Remove all the errors with a registry cleaner.

A utility like this will rid your disk of bits of programs that have been left behind in the registry when you have uninstalled them. Even if you remove programs the correct way and with great care bits of data can still be left behind. The cleaner will locate these bits of data and remove them. leaving them there will slow down your PC and generate windows registry errors.

Things like Active X errors and DLL errors can cause no end of problems and the only way to fix these is with a registry cleaner. Things like adware, spyware, malware and even viruses can cause your registry to fill up with errors and malicious entries and these too can be safely removed.

When selecting a registry cleaner it is always advisable to use a good one, or it will do some damage. It needs to be easy to use and offer all the functions that you require. Your choice should also depend on your personal level of computer know how because some registry cleaners expect you to know quite a lot about the computers in order to use them.

There are others that are automated and all you need to do is to press a button and the errors and corruption will be fixed in seconds. There will be no more worry about malicious software or spyware hiding in your computer again.

Doing this will not only remove these errors but will speed up your PC too and make it run like new and error free for good and you will have no more windows registry errors.

If your computer is slow here is the answer by fixing Windows Registry errors this will make your PC faster, just click here.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Randell

Troubleshooting Video Card Issues With ATI Drivers Download By Logan Albright Platinum Quality Author Article Word Count:

If you have a graphic card installed in your computer, it is likely from ATI, as it is the most common brands of graphic cards out there, or perhaps the most well-known because of its reputation of being one of the best video card brands out there. In fact, if you were to speak to any computer enthusiast you might find that ATI is almost the standard bearer where graphic cards are concerned.

However, despite the praise often lauded by fans of ATI, the one undeniable truth is that ATI is just like any piece of technology out there, and they cannot escape the fact that they too are prone to the occasional faults and errors. This article will show you just how you can troubleshoot video card issues with ATI drivers download.

The truth of the matter is, even their latest Radeon line of video cards is not susceptible to problems. In fact, most users have noted that the problem with that particular line of video cards is mostly compatibility issues.

The symptoms of these issues range from artifacts on screen, to even sudden freezing of the entire system. If you're lucky enough you might find the occasional error message or two. I say lucky, because if you receive an error message then your chances of resolving the issue would be significantly better, because you'd have something to work with.

But if your system freezes up out of the blue or your screen displays abnormally, then you're left scratching your head as you try to figure out what the heck is going on with your computer. It is, without a shadow of a doubt, a frustrating experience to bear, but fret not. The likelihood of the graphic card itself being the problem is statistically quite rare, because ATI is reputed for its advanced chipset manufacturing capability. Most video card issues can be attributed to a faulty driver.

What exactly is a driver? Well, it is the one element that enables the translation of bits of code and data from your computer into a graphical output on your screen. A driver can be considered a common language that bridges the gap between graphic card and the operating system, so that both can have a better understanding of one another and what is expected from them.

Once a driver is compromised, then so too will the output that you'll receive on screen. For the every day user, you need not bother to have an in-depth understanding of the various causes that can compromise a driver, but one of these causes happens to be outdated and incompatible drivers.

One aspect that ATI lacks in comparison to its advanced manufacturing capability is driver development. So one can expect a gap of sorts between the hardware and the driver written for it, and this gap is the primary cause that limits the video card's performance.

Like most reputed companies, ATI have seen fit to provide its customers with regular software updates for its line of graphic cards, and all you would have to do when you encounter video card issues is to go online and find, on their website, the necessary updates for the specific model of your video card.

A quick hassle-free method that you can also consider is to download a driver scan software, which will help you automate the entire process, and keep your computer constantly updated with the latest drivers.

Click Here to download Driver Scan for free and instantly get the Lastest ATI Drivers Download. Logan Albright is an authority on troubleshooting drivers issues at Driverscan.org and has helped many to optimize their computers for peak performance.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Logan_Albright

Slow Network - Tips to Fix Slow Network Problems

Have you ever annoyed that the network speed is quite slower than before? For example, it takes more and more time to open a website while there is nothing wrong with the Explorer. Well, in this article, you can learn some useful tips to fix slow network problems.

In the very first place, it is the problem of network itself. The bandwidth of aim website server is not large or overloaded. This is the easiest problem and what you need to do is to change to other websites or change other to visit it.

Secondly, you may have used too many firewalls. If you use too many firewalls, it can slow down network for sure. The simplest way is to uninstall those unnecessary ones and just need to keep a powerful one, it is sufficient to serve very well for computer. You can remove such excessive firewall so as to improve net work speed.

And then, the system resource is too low. It is probably that there are excessive applications running in the background and computer is unable to spare enough resource for network. In order to solve this problem, you should load programs and delete useless applications and files properly so as to free up more space. By doing this, you can speed up network.

Next, computer worms may reduce network speed. Worm virus that is spread through E-mail has affected network more and more seriously. Such virus can force the affected users to send E-mails restlessly. Numerous junk E-mails are sent from your computer every second while millions of them are returned to your server in batches.

In this way, such rubbish is piling up in the server and slows down speed. As a result, you should upgrade anti-virus software and your computer and install patching program in time as well. And do not forget to uninstall those unnecessary services and to close down needless ports so as to improve safety and stability of system.

Besides, slow network problem may be caused by problems in internet cable, loops in the network, malfunction of network equipment and so forth. But they are quite professional for you. If you want to keep high network speed, you should form a good habit of using computer, such as clear up disk regularly.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arial_Green

An Introduction to the World of USB Wireless Cards

The internet seems to be practically everywhere these days. In your phone, in your gaming console, offered as a standard feature in hotel rooms. It's all over the place, and more convenient than ever before, and seemingly getting even more impossibly convenient with every passing year. The latest innovation in this area comes in the form of USB wireless cards. If you've been stuck with a more old-fashioned wireless card taking up space in your computer, then you might want to consider upgrading. The conveniences of a USB card for wireless internet access are many, and all it costs you is a USB port, which are in increasingly more ready supply these days.

USB wireless cards are, in terms of housing and basic function, the same as any other USB device. They're small devices about the size of your thumb that can be simply plugged in to a USB port to function on an appropriate computer. Older computers have the USB plug ports on the back, while newer ones put them in the front for ease of use. When they're not in use, you can keep them in a pocket or small case and carry them around with no real trouble, since they're so small and lightweight. Originally developed as portable hard drives for storing information, they're now advanced enough to contain the software necessary for operating various programs, including the ability to hook your computer up to the internet. Therefore we now have internet in a USB drive, rather than just raw information or files, which blurs the domains between computers and their peripherals substantially.

These internet-connecting devices have many advantages over their forebears. Since they're not permanently installed inside a particular computer, they leave more room in computers for hard drives, graphics and sound cards, and other additions that take up permanent space inside the casing. Also because of this, they can be plugged in to any compatible computer and used whenever and wherever you like, allowing you to separate your internet access from the particular individual computer you're using at any given moment in time. As a part of the modern, mobile technological world, USB wireless cards let you connect to the internet on your own terms rather than being bound to particular computers. And as a part of this mobility focus, these devices will usually search for any available wireless access point in a given area once plugged in, hooking you up with a minimum of trouble.

For all that power and flexibility, though, you can get these peripheral devices at very low prices since advances in technology have made them cheap to produce. It's not unusual to find them below thirty dollars. So don't worry over whether you can afford to take the next step into the internet's new stage of evolution - you probably can.

Please visit USB wireless card or portable printers for laptops for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Waller

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Computer Cases and Power Supplies

A PC should be built with high-performance in mind. In order to ensure that a PC is built appropriately, there should be an adequate computer case and power supply. These two components are very significant to the overall performance of a PC. The actual case of the PC, keeps everything in tact. A computer’s power supply is needed to give life to the other components of the PC, without causing damage to other parts of the system. These two parts are very vital to a PC and are needed for their survival.

The computer case can be described as being a combination of metal and plastic, or either or. The case holds all of the computer’s components together. The motherboard, power supply, cooling fans, drives, and many more, are mounted in this sturdy case. The computer case will often shield a user from the noise made by the PC, giving a unique look to fit the user’s needs. While the computer case is the cover for the PC’s internal parts, the power supply gives these parts life. The power supply is able to give life because it distributes a flow of electricity that enables the many other components come alive.

Similar to the human heart in its relation to the body’s other organs. However, sometimes a power supply is not considered to be significant due to the fact that computer cases can now be bought with power supplies already attached. Nonetheless, most of these power supplies can provide a poor or generic power supply ultimately causing more damage than assistance

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Motherboard Parts Explained

The motherboard is a vital component that is responsible for smooth processing of data occurs on a computer. There was a little damage to the motherboard will cause damage to the entire system, because the motherboard is place for all the hardware components attached. Start from the graphics card, RAM, hard disk, optical drive, all combined into one unit by using the port in the motherboard. Below is list of general motherboard component :
CPU Socket : This section is the place laid a processor even with the many small holes that are used to place a pin processor.
RAM Slots : Places to install the memory module (RAM). For a modern motherboard, usually there are 4 slots DDR2 PC 6400 with a capacity of up to 8GB and support for dual-channel configuration.
Power Port : Old type use 20 +4 pin, while new types have been using 24 +4 pin. Through this port all the power needed by the system supplied through the power supply.
Serial ATA Port : The new type motherboard using this port. Usually there are 4 to 8. It is used for hard disk drives where using SATA interface. Cable that is used is usually smaller than the IDE cable. SATA technology is growing rapidly, at this time is to reach the next generation of SATA-2 with data transfer speeds up to 3Gb/s.
IDE Port : It is only found in old type of motherboard. That is used to install the hard disk drive and optical drives, it has an large size of the cable width.
Chip-set : A chip that regulates the data traffic on the system. There are 2 types of chip set with a different function with each other. North-bridge chip-set is located between the processor and RAM slots. This chip-set works so RAM and processor modules can work together (set of traffic data between the CPU and RAM). South-brigde chip-set is located on the bottom. Either the bottom of the processor or under the slot for graphics cards. Chip-set handle this work flow of traffic data from the graphics card, hard disk and other motherboard peripherals.
AGP / PCI Express Slot : Used to install the graphics card. AGP slot is rarely found in the new type, because the resulting bandwidth is not sufficient for the needs of graphics at this time. Now, almost all motherboards use the PCI Express slot, with a larger bandwidth. In fact, there are motherboards that have up to 4 PCI Express slots.
PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) : Is the place to put additional cards such as sound card, LAN card, TV tuner, and others. It is working at 33 Mhz frequency.
BIOS (Basic Input Output System) : Form of software that is embedded in the motherboard where the energy supplied from the motherboard battery. All initial configuration of the hardware that is installed can be accessed and changed through the BIOS.Many motherboard manufacturers other products that are complete with many additional features that will make the compatibility of various hardware increase.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mufti_Storm_Syuhada

Retrieving Hard Drive Data

So you went and thought it would be a good idea to open the control panel and start messing around with stuff, did you? Didn't feel like waiting to shut down your computer the RIGHT way, did you? You just pulled the plug. Or pressed the button. Silly rabbit...
You didn't pay any attention to the fact that you might lose some of all your precious computer information. No! Who cares about that, right? That's what we have nerds for!
But now you're sad because your super awesome new laptop computer has been reduced to a big ugly paperweight. Oh, if only there was some way to retreive your hard drive data! I'll tell you how, don't worry.
Problems like this are usually caused by the power going out. It goes out and your stupid file system didn't get stored like it needed to. Or maybe you have a problem with your hardware or drivers. Or maybe your stupid computer just crashed and you don't know why. They all have the same result: the file system didn't cross the T's and dot the I's. Imagine an olympic gymnast freezing in mid-air and instead of landing gracefully, falls on his head. SPLAT.
And like the gymnast, when your computer falls on its head, its going to get all messed up. It might start acting strangely, such as powering up and shutting down. It may forget things that it once knew, like how to feed itself and tie its shoes. Like a human deprived of oxygen for too long, your computer could have brain damage, making it difficult for it to communicate with the hard disk and retrieve the data necessary to operate properly.
There's some neat programs out there to fix these problems and your computer probably comes with at least one. I've listed them below because I'm cool like that.
Linux - FSCK Mac - Disk Utility Windows - CHKDSK
Run these programs to see if you have logical damage to your computer. If you're not getting anything, chances are you have some physical damage that's masquerading as logical damage.

Solutions to damaged hard drives
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stuart_Oden

Monday, September 7, 2009

Business software

Business software is generally any software program that helps a business increase productivity or measure their productivity. The term covers a large variation of uses within the business environment, and can be categorized by using a small, medium and large matrix:

Exampke of Business software:

Oracle Siebel CRM
Oracle OSM
Microsoft Project
Epicor
IQMS EnterpriseIQ
SYSPRO
Consona Made2Manage / Intuitive
Sage MAS 500
Ross Enterprise
Exact Globe, Batch 390
Microsoft Dynamics GP
Epicor
Sage Mas 90 / Sage Mas 200
NetSuite
Intacct
Exact Globe, Batch 390

Save Millions in Lost Revenue, You Need Data Quality Software

Data cleansing or data scrubbing ensures that the stored data is delivered absolutely accurately. While the process of data cleansing is in operation, records are continuously checked to verify its accuracy and consistency. If necessary, the outdated and incorrect information can be deleted as well. This system operates within a single set of record or between multiple data sets requiring merging or which may be working in unison.

Data cleansing ought to be an essential process in any organization that keeps consumer data. It allows the highest data quality by de-duping, and suppressing and also appending key details which are personal too. The accuracy of a consumer data base will erode at a frightening rate. Data cleaning identifies movers, duplicating records and enhances personal details. In its simplest form, the software would be like a singular person or more than one person who reads the set of records to verify their accuracy.

The typing and spelling errors can be rectified while the data which is improperly filed, labeled, incomplete or even missing can be completed through this software package. Data cleansing can also be performed by computer programming. A more complex data cleansing program might also be able to fill in a missing city based on correct zip code or convert prices of items in the data base to Euros instead of US dollars. This software is ideally suited for developing an updated mailing list which can be sent to clients for promoting / selling various products. The process is very important for the efficient management of data dependent business.

In case the clients have not recorded the correct phone numbers or the client's e-mail addresses have not been formatted accurately, the automated e-mail system is unable to send information on the latest special deals or coupons. The software based data cleansing ensures that all the data recorded within a system is up-to-date and accurate so that product details can be forwarded to the proper destination.

In areas where two data systems are working together, data cleansing is more effective. In case a manufacturing company has multiple branches, but may be dealing with the same customers, the data in each branch has to be complete, accurate and similar. When customers update their phone numbers within one branch, the data at the other branches need to have the same set of information ensuring that all the branches have identical data bank. In such cases the software based data cleansing also guarantee updated, accurate and consistent data between different records.

Often when storing a huge data base, errors are bound to creep into the system. The objective of data cleansing is to minimize or eliminate such errors and to make the data base appear as meaningful and useful as possible. In the business world the pivotal rule is that incorrect data base could be damaging and detrimental to the company's commercial activities. Hence, data cleansing should be a mandatory operation of any business set-up to maximize profits and ensure their message gets out to the intended recipients.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Databases

Databases are valuable resources that enable a myriad of business tools and practices, such as customer relationship management, efficiency analyses and projection reports, to name a few. Still, many people have difficulty conceptualizing what exactly a database is. A database is an organized collection of often vast amounts of related information that can be readily accessed and used as input to a range of applications that may present new or deeper insight into the business or enable new competitive advantages. In one sense databases can be likened to spreadsheets, containing fields and records of related but separate information that can be accessed for analysis. In fact databases and spreadsheets can in some cases be used in lieu of one other, but spreadsheets mainly answer inquiries about numerical data while databases are likely to contain more complex items such as images, dates, links, text, and numbers. The range of information that can be contained within and accessed by databases makes them indispensable for business data retention, compilation and interpretation.

To understand a database, first understanding some basic database related terminology is helpful. A field is a single aspect of the data contained within the database, while a record is the collection of data for one item in the database. Assume we are creating an employee information database that will contain employee names, addresses and telephone numbers. The employee name ‘Rebecca Smith’ could theoretically be contained within a field, while Rebecca’s name, address and telephone number would constitute one complete record. The single collection of all of the employees’ contact information represents a table, and multiple tables may be linked to other related tables, creating a relational database.

Planning is an important stage in database development to ensure that necessary information can easily be retrieved and utilized. Assume our employee information database above contains the first and last name of each employee in a field designated for employee name, with the complete address stored in the address field. Now suppose we need to create an alphabetical list of all employees by last name who live within ten miles of the office. For a well planned database, this would be a basic task. But for this example, how could the database distinguish between first name and last name, and how would it interpret the jumble of information we call ‘address’? It wouldn’t, which is what makes database planning so important. By anticipating how information would need to be retrieved in the future, we could have eliminated this problem by structuring separate fields for first name, last name, street address, city, state and zip code.

Databases do not only store information, they typically provide an interface through which users can collect and analyze information with ease. Most databases provide users with a means of establishing the data structure, form tools for easy data entry, a query engine which allows us to request information from the database and a report function for outputting the results of queries.

For businesses, information is power. Databases give companies unprecedented means of retrieving and analyzing important data that allows them to continuously improve and streamline processes for increased efficiency and ultimately, increased profitability.

Computer software

Computer software, or just software is a general term used to describe the role that computer programs, procedures and documentation play in a computer system.[1]

The term includes:

  • Application software such as word processors which perform productive tasks for users.
  • Firmware which is software programmed resident to electrically programmable memory devices on board mainboards or other types of integrated hardware carriers.
  • Middleware which controls and co-ordinates distributed systems.
  • System software such as operating systems, which interface with hardware to provide the necessary services for application software.
  • Software testing is a domain independent of development and programming. It consists of various methods to test and declare a software product fit before it can be launched for use by either an individual or a group. Many tests on functionality, performance and appearance are conducted by modern testers with various tools such as QTP, Load runner and Black box testing, to edit a checklist of requirements against the developed code. ISTQB is a certification that is in demand for engineers who want to pursue a career in testing.[2]
  • Testware which is an umbrella term or container term for all utilities and application software that serve in combination for testing a software package but not necessarily may optionally contribute to operational purposes. As such, testware is not a standing configuration but merely a working environment for application software or subsets thereof.

Software includes things such as websites, programs or video games, that are coded by programming languages like C or C++.

"Software" is sometimes used in a broader context to mean anything which is not hardware but which is used with hardware, such as film, tapes and records
-Wikipedia

Basic computer components

If you are about to assemble your own computer, you should first recognize the functions of each most important components of a computer before you go and purchase its parts. It’s simple to attach these PC components so you don’t need to be anxious about how you can possibly build your own PC. Here’s a plain list of personal computer components that you must remember especially when you are planning to construct your computer. This can help you decide on which components to obtain especially if you are new to this fad or don’t have any idea what these parts are for.

Motherboard: In case you’ve chosen the CPU, you can select the appropriate motherboard of the same socket type. There are many features to keep in mind when buying a CPU like how many PCI expansion holes that you will need and if you need a built in video on the motherboard or the additional one. Now, most motherboards are inclusive of sound and video on board but if you are going to use your personal computer for heavy-duty gaming then a separate video card is advisable.

Hard Drive: When selecting a hard drive for your personal computer, you should ask yourself how much storage capacity you should have. If you are going to use your personal computer mostly to do homework or research then 40GBs hard drive will be enough space for you to use. However, for those who will use their computers to edit videos and the like then they should acquire around 250GBs or more storage. A quick hard drive is also recommended when you need to get analog video using your PC to avoid dropped frames.

CD/DVD: You can still get very dependable but plain CD-ROMs in the marketplace today however since CD and DVD are frequently used as medium of exchange for information then a first class rewritable combo drive is a better alternative than plain CD-ROMs. Any rewritable combo drive is very helpful especially when you want to share personal movies to your friends and relatives. It’s much rational to waste a few more money for a drive that will do DVDs along with CDs than plain CD-ROMs.

Floppy: There are lots of people that have removed floppy drives in their personal computers. Though they can provide a means to maintain your PC that is crippled by a virus but that can as well be answered with a high-quality anti virus software plus the knowledge on how to make use of your computer correctly. Another reason why smaller numbers of people are making use of Floppy disk is for the reason that Flash Drive has become cheaper as well as its ability to accumulate incredible amount of details as matched up to Floppy disks.

Graphics Card: If you chose to use your PC for tough gaming then a good Graphic card is needed. You can still play games by making use of the built in video on the motherboard but for utmost gaming performance, obtain the most excellent Graphic card that you can get. Just keep in mind that the more memory on the card, the more improved it is for games and more. Persons who do photo manipulation or video control also needs high video cards.

Modem: If you are still trapped with dialup then buy yourself a 56K modem. You discover modems at more inexpensive prices nowadays. You may also want to verify available internet providers in your area. DSL and Broadband connections are cheaper today than before. If you have concluded to use a DSL or Broadband connection, then you should verify the motherboard if it provides a built in LAN card. If not, you should also buy a sample.

Case: The computer casing contains these entire modern apparatus together. Personal computer casings now are not anymore arranged to tower types or similar to a box with air holes punched in it. Box and compact type are several computer case designs that you will get in the marketplace nowadays.

Power Supply: The major worries of individuals who need to put up their own PC is the power supply. You may choose the perfect computer case that you need although you will be irritated with the power supply that the manufacturers paired up with that personal computer box. Sometimes, At times, Most of the time you can even locate a PC case that is enhanced with a power supply less than 300 watts. If you’re addicted to games, you will need a power supply that supplies 450 watts or more.

Case fans: You might want a number of add-ons to put together in the package. Just like including neon lights or extra cooling fan to your PC casing. Your personal computer hardware parts (like processor, motherboard, graphic cards, hard drives and etc.) create lots of heat and can influence your personal computer’s operation when you utilize it. A better cooling system may preserve your computer in fine operating form. Over heat in your personal computer can produce PC issues such as system freezes or break down and short-term existence for overheated parts. Additional cooling fans produces a more improved airflow for the purpose of dropping the heat, providing ventilation, exhaust, or any other gaseous transport.

Memory: PC memory is also called as PC data storage. This is the personal computer part that sustains digital data or information. It is one of the vital components of most recent personal computers. The most common structure of semiconductor storage is identified as random access memory (RAM) which also pertains to primary storage. Other styles of fast but short-term storage consist of optical discs, hard disks, and a lot more which are identified as secondary storage.

Top 8 Careers With a Computer Science Degree

If you enjoy working with computers, learning new programs or testing out the latest computer software products, earning a computer science degree is necessary if you want to find a well paying job in the computer or IT field. Popular hot jobs you can apply for after you graduate include:

  • Database administrator

  • Software Support

  • Software engineer

  • Computer engineer

  • Interface designer

  • Systems analyst

  • Computer programmer

  • Network Administrator


Each of these careers is rewarding and necessary as more and more companies are in need of those who can use this technology to further their businesses.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, over half of all computer programmers have at least a bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field. This means that earning a computer science degree online will increase your chances of finding your dream job.

What will you learn through an Online Computer Degree Program?

A computer science online degree will prepare you for a career in IT, Computer Security or any of the above positions in the same way as a traditional classroom degree. But instead of having to go to class, rearrange your work schedule, or disturb other areas of your life, you can take classes online, study at your convenience and not have to worry about the added costs of parking or leaving work early to attend classes.

When you take online courses, you can expect to learn any of the following and more:

  • Hardware and software design

  • Software development

  • Troubleshooting

  • Networking

  • Data Security

  • Database management

  • Web design

  • Develop security plans


Because most companies use technology systems to carry out business processes and communicate with employees, customers, vendors and others, more and more companies are creating IT departments that employ those who understand how networks function and how to keep them secure. Computer systems and manufacturing companies are also looking for talented individuals to create new software and hardware for consumers.
While you earn your degree, you will be able to explore different fields to find one that suits your personality and interests.

Choosing an Online Computer Degree Program

When looking for an online degree program, it's important to determine which direction you want to move toward in terms of your career. While some areas of computer science, such as computer programming, have seen a slow decline in the number of open positions since 2006, other areas such as computer support and information security have seen an increase.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, over the next few years, computer support positions are expected to increase by 13%. This means that you should choose a program that allows you to easily find employment immediately upon graduation. A computer degree online that focuses on a certain area within computer science is best if you have a particular talent in that area. You can also choose to become a generalist that specializes in a number of areas. Another pointer is to ensure you choose a computer science or IT program from an online college that is accredited.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Laptop


A laptop computer or notebook computer is a small mobile computer, typically weighing 3 to 12 pounds (1.4 to 5.4 kg), although older laptops may weigh more. Laptops usually run on a single main battery or from an external AC/DC adapter that charges the battery while it also supplies power to the computer itself, even in the event of a power failure. This very powerful main battery should not be confused with the much smaller battery nearly all computers use to run the real-time clock and backup BIOS configuration into the CMOS memory when the computer is without power.

Laptops contain components that are similar to their desktop counterparts and perform the same functions, but are miniaturized and optimized for mobile use and efficient power consumption, although typically less powerful for the same price. Laptops usually have liquid crystal displays and most of them use different memory modules for their random access memory (RAM), for instance, SO-DIMM in lieu of the larger DIMMs. In addition to a built-in keyboard, they may utilize a touchpadpointing stick for input, though an external keyboard or mouse can usually be attached. (also known as a trackpad) or a

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Project management

Tasks or activities of project management softwares

[edit] Scheduling

One of the most common tasks is to schedule a series of events, and the complexity of this task can vary considerably depending on how the tool is used. Some common challenges include:

  • Events which depend on one another in different ways or dependencies
  • Scheduling people to work on, and resources required by, the various tasks commonly termed resource scheduling
  • Dealing with uncertainties in the estimates of the duration of each task
  • Arranging tasks to meet various deadlines
  • Juggling multiple projects simultaneously to meet a variety of requirements

[edit] Calculating critical path

In many complex schedules, there will be a critical path, or series of events that depend on each other, and whose durations directly determine the length of the whole project (see also critical chain). Some software applications (for example, Dependency Structure Matrix solutions) can highlight these tasks, which are often a good candidate for any optimization effort.

[edit] Providing information

Project planning software needs to provide a lot of information to various people, to justify the time spent using it. Typical requirements might include:

  • Tasks lists for people, and allocation schedules for resources
  • Overview information on how long tasks will take to complete
  • Early warning of any risks to the project
  • Information on workload, for planning holidays
  • Evidence
  • Historical information on how projects have progressed, and in particular, how actual and planned performance are related