Classification of Computers

Computers are available in different shapes, sizes and weights, due to these different shapes and sizes they perform different sorts of jobs from one another.

They can also be classified in different ways. All the computers are designed by the qualified computer architectures that design these machines as their requirements.

A computer that is used in a home differs in size and shape from the computer being used in a hospital. Computers act as a server in large buildings, while the computer also differs in size and shape performing its job as a weather forecaster.

A student carrying a laptop with him to his college is different in shape and size from all the computers mentioned above.

Here we are going to introduce different classifications of computers one by one. We will discuss what are in classifications and what job they perform.

Super computer

The biggest in size, the most expensive in price than any other is classified and known as super computer. It can process trillions of instructions in seconds. This computer is not used as a PC in a home neither by a student in a college.

Governments specially use this type of computer for their different calculations and heavy jobs. Different industries also use this huge computer for designing their products.

In most of the Hollywood’s movies it is used for animation purposes. This kind of computer is also helpful for forecasting weather reports worldwide.

Mainframes

Another giant in computers after the super computer is Mainframe, which can also process millions of instruction per second and capable of accessing billions of data.

This computer is commonly used in big hospitals, air line reservations companies, and many other huge companies prefer mainframe because of its capability of retrieving data on a huge basis.

This is normally to expensive and out of reach from a salary-based person who wants a computer for his home.

This kind of computer can cost up to thousands of dollars.

Minicomputer

This computer is next in he line but less offers less than mainframe in work and performance. These are the computers, which are mostly preferred by the small type of business personals, colleges, etc.

Personal computers

Almost all the computer users are familiar with the personal computers. They normally know what the personal computer is and what are its functions.

This is the computer mostly preferred by the home users. These computers are lesser in cost than the computers given above and also, small in size; they are also called PCs in short for Personal computers.

This computer is small in size and you can easily arrange it to fit in your single bedroom with its all accommodation. Today this is thought to be the most popular computer in all.

Notebook computers

Having a small size and low weight the notebook is easy to carry to anywhere. A student can take it with him/her to his/her school in his/her bag with his/her book.

This is easy to carry around and preferred by students and business people to meet their assignments and other necessary tasks.

The approach of this computer is also the same as the Personal computer. It can store the same amount of data and having a memory of the same size as that of a personal computer. One can say that it is the replacement of personal desktop computer.

COMPUTER BACKUPS

Computer backup is so important to your computer that to ignore it is to risk its damnation.

Computers require care and feeding. They require that you attend to their needs. If you don't, then they will most surely be sent to Hell.

Halloween means Hell. What! What do you mean that Halloween means Hell?

Well, if your computer is given the option of trick or treat, which will it accept? Will it accept the trick or the treat? What do you think?

Halloween is the time that computers are subject to tricks or treats. Did you know that more computers fail on Halloween than any other day of the year? That's right. It's true (smile). Your computer is in danger! Protect it. Do your computer backups.

Back to the Hell thing. Hell you say? Yep. Well, what do you mean by Hell?

Computer hell is the place for computers without computer backup. The failure to perform hard drive backup means that you are playing Russian Roulette with your data. Data needs your protection. Failure to protect your data may cause your home or business records to be sent to Hell.

Hell in this instance is for the records and files that cannot be resurrected. Resurrected you say, what does that mean?

It means that without computer backup as a source of salvation then the files can safely enjoy eternal oblivion. Oblivion you say, what does that mean? That means they are eternally lost from computer resurrection.

Is there any mercy for my precious files, you ask?

Why yes there is. Would like to know what the mercy for your files is? Yes! Yes! You say.

OK boys and girls listen carefully. The salvation, mercy, resurrection and redemption of your files lies in regular and consistent and persistent computer backup.

If you backup your computer consistently and persistently your files will be resurrected and saved from accidental deletion, hard drive failure and those nasty things like fire, flood, theft, earthquake, hurricanes, tornados and the like!

Computer backup is the key to your data's salvation!

Choosing a Laptop Computer Based on Hardware and Software Needs

Laptop computers are one of the most desirable techie gadgets. A laptop is a portable computer that could comfortably be used while on a person's lap - hence the name. It contains all the basic and necessary software (like Office System and Internet access) and hardware (like CD-Rom drive and Modem) features of an ordinary computer and still fits in an ordinary briefcase or backpack.

Advantages of Owning a Laptop

1. Portability.

Being portable, it can be brought along and used anywhere - school, work, vacation trips, unlike the ordinary desktop computer. This is especially handy to a person with a very hectic schedule and busy lifestyle. In this regard, a computer addict doesn't have to be a hermit anymore! He or she can go out under the glaring rays of the sun and still hold on to the best technological breakthrough product.

2. Convenience.

It is useful for the working person, for the student, for the hobbyist, and for a computer addict too. One can take notes in class, type and print assignments and reports, access the Internet and communicate with another person on the other side of the globe. Teachers and public relations officers can make use of the laptop to give a different dimension to their presentations. Some teachers also find students are more motivated when using a laptop.

3. Size and Weight.

The dormer and studio type apartment lessee would agree that a laptop would save them more space.

4. Image.

It cannot be denied that a laptop is cool. With its sleek shape and form, it can be very eye-catching. It also gives the statement that the owner is not outdated, that he or she is in keeping with the times, and finally, computer literate.

Laptops are not that expensive anymore, but this is not the kind of item a person would shop for every other week. Each and every laptop has its own demands, requirements and features. Features you may want to look for:

1. Size and weight. Laptops are portable, but their sizes and weight still vary. To be very portable, it must be small and lightweight. They usually weigh 5 pounds. If it will be used outdoors more often, the weight should not be more than 5 pounds.

The size of the screen is also important. The usual sizes are 12.1, 13.3 and 14.4 inches. Tiny screens, as small as 8 inches, are ideal for portability, but the demands of the eyes - to have a squint-free screen - should also be considered.

2. Sturdy. A laptop must be taken care of, but it would be more ideal to have a tough and sturdy one that will be able to withstand any accidental knock or minor bump. There are models available with shock-resistant hard drive mounts. It has to be durable enough if it will be taken outdoors often.

3. Internet connection. One has to be in touch with the rest of the online community. There are wireless connections offered already. To one with budget constraints, an ordinary 56Kbps modem would do to connect to the rest of the world.

4. USB port. This should also be carefully checked out so that the laptop can be used in many more ways. There should be at least one USB port if not more, for future expansion of adding other hardware. The USB port can be used for external keyboard and mouse, but it is most useful to create connection with digital cameras, external drives, and MP3 players.

5. Battery life. The battery life of the laptop must allow the user to use and enjoy it outdoors or in areas that do not offer power resources for the public. A reasonable battery life should not be lower than 5 hours. The battery life will determine the extent of freedom that can be enjoyed with the laptop.

There are 3 kinds of batteries available.

The Lithium-ion (Li+) is usually chosen. Li+ batteries have range that can offer the best quality.

Nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries are less expensive, although they do not excle in terms of battery life.

Nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries are the ones to stay away from. They require constant recharging.

6. Technical specifications. There should be enough RAM, storage space / hard drive and computing speed. The technical specifications would depend on the most probable purpose of the laptop to the owner. If the laptop would be used for playing 3D games, it is ideal to get at least a 256 RAM. If several music or video files will be stored, a larger hard drive should be considered, 40 gigabyte is ideal.

7. Price. Finally, the laptop should be reasonably priced. There are refurbished laptops available out there for those with strict budgets but there is a way to save money and still get the ideal laptop.

First, the purpose that the laptop will serve must be properly ascertained. This will avoid purchasing laptops with expensive features that would end up being unused. Don't buy 80 gigabyte of storage space if only 3 gigabytes will be used for documents.

Stick to your budget. There are many attractive add-ons in the computer shop like glow-in-the-dark mouse pads or wireless mouse. These may not be necessary and can add to the total cost.

Negotiate for add-on features. Lastly, it wouldn't hurt to try to negotiate for the price. 5% off can go a long way.

Career Track: Computer Software Engineers

Computer Software Engineers are responsible for a multitude of tasks that are evolving and changing as quickly as technology. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, professionals in this career are the ones that are "responsible for applying the principles and techniques of computer science, engineering and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing and evaluation of software and the systems that enable computers to perform their many applications."

There are basically two sub categories of software engineers, which include:

* Computer Applications Software Engineers * Computer Systems Software Engineers

Applications Software Engineers are responsible for analyzing the needs of the user and then designing, constructing and maintaining the applications or software. Professionals in this career use programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Fortran and COBOL. Many Software Applications Engineers are responsible for developing both packed systems and systems software as well as creating customized applications. Computer Systems Software Engineers are responsible for "coordinating the construction and maintenance of a company's computer systems while planning for future growth." Most Software Engineers work closely with coworkers as well as customers to ensure their products meet needs and expectations. Opportunities for advancement and industry outlook:

The career outlook for Software Engineers is strong. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, this profession is projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations between 2002-2012. College graduates with at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering and practical work experience will have little trouble finding placement. The only downside is that the increase in offshore contracting may impact this profession as well as others in the IT industry. Employers will continue to search out professionals with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal and business skills. Adding these to your resume would be a plus.

Advancement opportunities within the industry continue to grow as professionals add to their experience. While entry level engineers will more than likely be tasked with testing and verifying designs, more experienced engineers will be involved in designing and developing actual software. The next step on the career ladder is project management. Once supervisory skills have been established, the door opens to positions like Information Systems Manager, or possibly Chief Information Officer. Many successful engineers open their own consulting firms.

Educational Requirements:

Most employers require a bachelor's degree and extensive knowledge or experience with a variety of systems and technologies.

Usual degree concentrations are computer science, software engineering, or computer information systems. For some positions, graduate degrees are required. While program certifications are recommended, they are not considered sufficient for most software engineering jobs unless accompanied by a degree. Also recommended are strong analytical skills and an attention to detail. Potential Salary:

(According to the U.S. Dept. of Labor)

Position & their respective Salary Range (2003) Median annual earnings of Computer Applications Software Engineers $70,900

Median annual earnings of Computer Systems Software Engineers $74,040

Starting salary offers for graduates with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering $51,343

Starting salary offers for graduates with a Master's degree in Computer Engineering $64,200

Starting Salaries for Software Engineers in Software Development $64,250 - $97,000

Industry Certifications:

Recommended professional certifications include:

* CIW Associate

* CIW Professional

* CIW Security Analyst

* CIW Web Developer

* MCAD.NET

* MCDBA

* MCSD.NET

* RHCE

* SCP J2SE

Career Track: Computer Programmer

Article: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the outlook for employment for Computer Programmers is expected to grow with other industries through 2012. Positions for Applications Programmers and Systems Programmers will be abundant in consulting businesses, data processing firms and software houses.

Roles and Responsibilities :

The primary role of a Computer Programmer is to write programs according to the instructions determined primarily by computer software engineers and systems analysts. In a nutshell, Computer Programmers are the ones that take the completed designs and convert them into the instructions that the computer can actually follow. The instructions are coded into a programming language. In some cases, programmers are also expected to know platform specific languages used in database programming. Many programmers at the enterprise level are also expected to know platform-specific languages used in database programming. Responsibilities include updating; repairing, modifying and expanding existing programs as well as running tests to authenticate that the program will produce the desired outcome.

Applications Programmers are the ones that actually write programs to handle very specific jobs, revise existing software or customize generic applications while Systems Programmers write programs to maintain and control computer systems software such as operating systems, database and/or networked systems. In some smaller organizations, the programmers may also be responsible for systems analysis and the actual programming. In many cases, however, technology is replacing the need to write basic code which doesn't bode well for those considering entering the field. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, however, the "demand for programmers with strong object-oriented programming capabilities and technical specialization in areas such as client/server programming, wireless applications, multimedia technology, and graphic user interface (GUI) should arise from the expansion of intranets, extranets, and Internet applications. Programmers also will be needed to create and maintain expert systems and embed these technologies in more products. Finally, growing emphasis on cyber-security will lead to increased demand for programmers who are familiar with digital security issues and skilled in using appropriate security technology."

Advancement Opportunities :

The advancement opportunities for computer Programmers are many and usually start with a promotion to a Lead Programmer. A Lead Programmer position will more than likely include supervisory duties. System programming is usually the next career step for Computer Programmers who have completed systems software courses. Programmer Analysts and Systems Analysts are also logical steps. Many programmers are also finding that independent contracting and consulting gives them the freedom to pick and choose their projects.

Advancement Opportunities :

The advancement opportunities for computer Programmers are many and usually start with a promotion to a Lead Programmer. A Lead Programmer position will more than likely include supervisory duties. System programming is usually the next career step for Computer Programmers who have completed systems software courses. Programmer Analysts and Systems Analysts are also logical steps. Many programmers are also finding that independent contracting and consulting gives them the freedom to pick and choose their projects.

Educational Requirements :

Although required skills and training will vary dependent upon the position and industry in which you're working, the demand for skill sets is even more driven by technological changes. In some positions, graduate degrees may be required. While traditional language knowledge is still important, C++ and Java are the programming languages of choice. GUI and systems programming skills are also sought after. In addition, general business skills will be an asset in any organization. Systems programmers usually need a 4-year degree in computer science and extensive knowledge of a variety of operating systems. They are usually also expected to be proficient in database systems such as DB2, Sybase and/or Oracle.

Salary Potential : (As reported by the U.S. Dept. of Labor)

Position Salary Range (2003)

Median Average Earnings $60.290

Starting salary for graduates with B.A. in Computer Programming $45,558

Salary range for Applications Development Programmers $51,500 - $80,500

Salary range for Software Developers $55,000 - $87,750

Salary range for Mainframe Programmers $53,250 - $68,750

Industry Certifications :

Computer programmers have a variety of options when it comes to adding certifications to their resumes. It is strongly recommended that potential candidates attain Language certifications as well as vendor or software specific certifications.

Build your first computer from hardware scratches

Wow- if you do it first time and have some asset of time in your disposition – then go ahead and purchase motherboard, your favorite processor, memory, video card (probably it is better to purchase it external for advanced quality). You will also need computer case – first computer should probably go to the cheap one – with USB 2 ports from the front side – the only question – you might want to replace noisy cheap power supply with $50 dollars one. Processor fan – nowadays you will see the variety for all the tastes – get the one with adjustable spinning speed to regulate noise (if you could not place it into the basement of your house – I guess you live in apartment or student dormitory). Let’s go to details:
•Ahead of Generation. It is not a secret that when you build your own computer – you might overpay – in considering to what is available in the stores.. However you usually get ahead of technology. For example – it is still common when Dell/Compaq/IBM computers use PC2700 standard of memory. If you bought PC3200 – you have two years of being ahead of the competition
•Processor. If you build your computer from scratches – you should look into 64-bits processor from the beginning. Get AMD Athlon 64 3400+ at least
•Video Card. For $100 you can get maximum of memory and performance. This is why we recommend to get external videocard
•DVD Writer. RW+/- unfortunately Japanese manufacturers are in the process of decision making on winning standards plus DVD of high density. Get both supported.
•Hard Drive. Decent motherboards support IDE raid and you could experiment with striping (raid 0). Then if you purchase two IDE disks 400 GB each – you will get 800 GB – unbelievable for supercomputers – but you are on your own and cosmopolitan individual – step forward and be ahead of competition.
•Troubleshooting. Understood and respected. First listen your mother board beeps and refer to its documentation. It might not see memory, graphical card, etc. When you are installing memory – be very careful to static electricity issue. When you are attaching your mother board to computer case – the most typical issue is motherboard shorting – so do not be surprised to try your motherboard first outside the case

Broadcasting Mp3 Audio Via Computer, The Looney Tune World Of Podcasting

Podcasting Is A New Form Of Fun Stuff To Do On The Computer. The Ipod Was Made For Music Downloads, But The Reality Is That It Has Created A Launch Of Mini Shows, That Are Uncut And Cheap To Produce.

Every Event You Can Imagine Is A Potential Contender As A Reality Radio Broadcast Show From Rio To Cape Cod, And From Boston To Broadway.

CB Radio,i.e. Ham Radio, Was Developed As Radio For The People, But Now Another Page In The Consumer Notebook Of Modern History Has Turned.

Any Music Concert Can Become An Mp3, Whether It's By Players Like Eminem & 50cent Or Country Music And Guitar Songs Dedicated To Andy Griffeth.

Mp3 Audio Can Include A Report From A Reality TV Show To A Las Vegas Show, To A Looney Tune Review, And It Can Range From Humor To Commentaries On The Weather, Oprah Winfrey & American Idol, The Titanic, The Da Vinci Code, Or Even A Live Sex Show In Harmony Hall.

They're All Now Available As A Downloadable Music Composition, A Video Or Even A Slide Show On Your Computer, And I Wouldn't Be Surprised If Some Of These Shows Show Up On Sirius Radio, XM Radio Or Other Satellite Radio Shows, Conventional Radio Or Even On TV.

The Ipod Is A Creative Way To Download Digital Music Automatically Via Computer Around The Clock, By Virtue Of Podcasting.

This Is Not About Downloading Online Music Onto Your Computer Via Music File Sharing. This Is About The Bone Thug Across The Street Writing A Music Lyric On His Computer Calling It A Skin Tune By Frankie J & Lil Jon Luny Mas, And With No Harmony Or Melody, Having A Ball, Because Some Stranger In Central Louisville Looking For Cheap Music Downloads Records It To His Mp3 Player While Waiting For A Pizza Delivery.

The Apple Ipod Is Not A Technology Whose Life Is Limited To A Trade Show Display.

It's In The Hands Of The People. Podcasting Is Way Bigger Than Two Way Radio Or Any Online Computer Game, And It's Not Limited To The Ipod Mp3 Player Or Even The Rio Sport Mp3 Player.

Newer Models Are Creating Competition And Getting Cheaper, Just Like All Computer Technology Always Does. Just Look At The DVD Player.

Ipod Is Getting The Credit, But Adam Curry, Former Music Video DJ And MTV Host In The 1980's, Is The Central Player In RSS (Real Simple Syndication).

A Music Download To A Mini Portable Mp3 Player Is Not New, The Ipod Buzz Is. Podcasting Is Going To Be Big.

I Feel Lucky To Have Gotten In On It At An Early Stage, With My Daily Podcast Sunny Thought Of The Day. It Supplements My Free Affirmations By E-Mail.

So Now You Have 2 Free Ways To Get Positive Thinking From Me.

I Was Interviewed Last Month In The Honolulu Star Bulletin, Who Told Me I Was The Only Daily Podcaster In The State Of Hawaii.

Since Then I've Found Out I'm One Of Only A Handful Who Podcast Daily In The Entire World.

And My Radio Interviews - I Was Interviewed By Positive Purpose Radio Host Kevin Mcdonald, On KLAY AM Radio In The Seattle Area, 5 Times - 1 Hour Each - Those Shows Were All Podcast Internationally, Too.

Welcome To The Future! It's Evolving One Day At A Time. Why Not Hit The Computer Airwaves Yourself? And Start Podcasting Today!

Buying a Used Laptop Computer

uying a used or refurbished laptop is much the same as buying a new one - except you are going to get a much better buy! When considering buying a used laptop, the first thing to do is to determine what your needs are.

What do you want to use the laptop for?

*Word Processing *E-mail *Internet Browsing *Use at Work and at Home *Gaming *On-line Shopping *Database Applications *Personal Finance and Online Banking *Coding *Schoolwork

The reason for assessing what you applications you need are that most refurbished laptops often only include the Operating System (OS). Some don't even have an OS installed so make sure you know what you're buying before you spend your money.

Once you establish your computing needs, you need to determine your budget.

Refurbished laptops don't always come with an operational battery. If you need a battery, shop around to figure the cost to replace one. You should know that older laptop batteries don't last more than an hour or two, and even purchasing a new battery for the purpose of longer battery life may not be worth the expense. You should also stick with name brand battery manufacturers like IBM, Dell, Toshiba and Compaq-HP.

Once you have your refurbished laptop, you may not know what to do next. If you are new to computers and you want to browse the World Wide Web, you will need to obtain the services of an ISP (Internet Service Provider). There are basically two types of Internet access options: broadband (cable modem, DSL, satellite) and dial up. Broadband is the preferred type since download speeds can range from 128kbs to 6000kbs (faster is better). But, if your budget is tight, dial-up access will work fine for typical browsing and e-mail usage.

If you bought your used laptop for gaming, you definitely need a reliable broadband connection. Gaming over a dial up connection will be frustrating and on some cases even impossible. That is why it's critical that you check out the minimum systems requirement for the games you like before buying the laptop. You want to make sure the CPU speed and the RAM and graphic chip requirements will support your needs.

Finally, where do you buy your used or refurbished laptops?

* Some people choose to search at www.ebay.com. If you be sure to check out the seller to be sure you will have a smooth transaction. * Many don't want the hassle of bidding, so will use their favorite search engine: www.google.com orwww.yahoo.com or www.msn.com for the terms used laptops or refurbished laptop.

How do you choose once you have a list? 1. Look for online reviews 2. Make sure they have a BBB Online Insignia 3. Make sure their service is up to you standard. Most of the vendors have 800 numbers, so it won't cost anything to call. 4. What do their prices look like?

If all the above seems like too much of a hassle, then buy a new computer. It will cost around $800 + but will come with a new battery and a one year warranty (although some new ones seem to have only 90 day warranties). It will also have the latest Windows XP system and an 800 number to call the vendor, should there be a problem.

Buying DDR memory for your computer

Many aspects of the personal computer have increased in leaps and bounds in terms of performance and what they are capable of doing.

Computer memory, often referred to as Random Access Memory (RAM), has become of greater and greater performance as time has gone on.

One of the famous quotes from back in the eighties was one made by Bill Gates when he said that no one would ever need more than 640KB of memory. Well that has been passed for ages now, with high performance machines sometimes sporting over 1GB of it.

There are many advantages that can be had with more memory. -Programs run faster -Less waiting time for programs to load -More programs can be run at a time -Overall computer speed is increased

Double Data Rate (DDR) memory is the staple of the consumer market. It has taken off due to public demand and now comes quite reasonably priced.

Computers don't generally come with less than 256MB of memory nowadays. My computer after freshly installing Windows 2000 (no, I haven't gone to Windows XP yet) takes about 80MB or memory. That is the very least, with no additional programs or anything else installed. After I have installed all the graphics drivers, Internet connection software for ADSL, virus protection and firewall it takes around 160MB of total memory.

From my previous experience, 256MB will do, but after it becomes quickly filled when running a few programs, Windows reverts to using the hard drive for memory. It's a way to fake more memory, by using the hard drive as a temporary store. 512MB now does it for my needs, but if you run many programs or memory intensive ones, 768MB or even 1GB will do better.

But is memory size the only factor?

An equally important factor is the memory speed. It is measured in MHz. Most systems use 400MHz DDR memory. This would be the safe bet with almost any processor you may have. 400MHz has also become the most common to buy, there is not much slower than that left to buy.

Memory from a reputable manufacturer will ensure that you don't have problems with it and will also provide a certain amount of overclocking if you are into that. Even better would be to get faster memory, it just runs down at the computers speed, even if it is designed for more.

Another aspect of memory has come into play, being highlighted mostly by the enthusiastic overclocking crowd, and that's latency.

Memory is a bank or table of places where information can be stored. In order to get the specific rows and columns certain things have to be activated within the memory. In a nutshell latency refers to how long it takes to be able to acces another part of memory. The shorter the time it takes, the quicker it is.

Low latency memory comes at a huge price premium, with 512MB of top class memory costing more than some processors.

But does it actually benefit you?

If you are into high-speed 3D games then there could certainly be a difference. For the rest of us, there probably won't be much difference. It's still worth it however to keep latency in mind when shopping around. I would certainly choose a lower latency model when buying.

Dual channel memory is another recent addition to memory technology. What it does is it puts the memory into pairs, the two pairs together can increase on the performance and speed of the memory by up to 10%. The motherboard has to support it, and the memory has to be the dual channel kind. Dual channel will work even when not in a pair, but normal memory will have no advantage when put in a pair.

Finally, DDR2 is a newer addition available for Intel systems. It has 240 pins (the little copper strips at the end that plugs into the slot) as opposed to DDR memory's 184 pins. In this respect the two are completely incompatable. DDR2 is by design meant to be in pairs, they don't have to be, but they all have dual channel capability. Only Intel processors with LGA775 socket type use this memory, but it is much faster.

So, whenever looking for more memory, try to bear these factors in mind...

-Do you need DDR or DDR2 (LGA775 systems) -What speed do I need? Usually 400MHz (named PC3200) or faster? -256MB minimum, preferably 512 or up to 1GB -Dual channel pairs. Do you need them and does your computer support them? -Latency, lower the better, but not essential. CAS of 3 is normal.

Beeps! Your computer is telling you something.

One beep from your computer at startup can make your whole day. Just ask anyone that has turned on the
PC and suffered the agony of several beeps and then nothing.

When you purchase a computer, it will arrive with the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), pre-installed on an
EPROM (Erasable Programmable read Only Memory), chip on the main/motherboard. When you start your
computer the CPU (Central Processing Unit), sends control of the PC to the EPROM BIOS. The BIOS is part of
the POST (Power-On Self Test) of the computer. Once the BIOS receives the go ahead from the processor it starts
its magical journey through all the components and peripheral devices attached to the computer. CMOS
(complementary metal-oxide semiconductor), hold the data that is accessed by the BIOS setup. Basically, the
CMOS is the reason that you can unplug your computer and retain the startup and BIOS information. CMOS is
maintained on the motherboard in an always-on state supported by a battery installed on the main board.

Much like the human mind, when we wake up in the morning our brain remembers that we have eyes, ears, a nose
and so on. We know the town we live in. You can go to work, stop by the post office, the grocery store and back
home without having to spend time perusing a map for directions to each one. Your computer works much the same
way. Without a memory device to instruct the computer on what’s where, the operating system and other software
would literally have to take the time to locate each part of the PC and its components every time they are loaded.
Fortunately, the BIOS take care of that for the processor, operating system and components.

How the BIOS works. Every computer comes pre-loaded with the BIOS on the motherboard. Motherboard
manufacturers work long hours with BIOS manufacturers to make sure the information in the BIOS is specific to the
needs and components of the motherboard. Although there are a number of BIOS manufacturers, the two most
popular are AMI (American Megatrends Incorp.) and VIA. BIOS simply put, is a program and not an actual
device. It is the software that informs the computer at startup of all the devices (input and output) attached to the PC.
The BIOS also lets you know when there is a problem. It accomplishes this by checking for known devices and
makes sure they are still attached. When the BIOS detect a problem it sends a series of beeps to the motherboard
speaker. This series informs the user of what the problem is, at least as well as the BIOS can determine. Lets say
your video card has gone the way of the XT model computer, the BIOS senses that it has died or is not installed. The
BIOS sends a series of beeps to the onboard PC speaker to inform you of the problem. Pretty neat! The problem is
that no manufacturer of BIOS uses the same beep series. This is why it is important for you to know the BIOS
software manufacturer for your specific PC. We’ll explain how to find this out later.

How do I know if the BIOS are working? That’s easy, if your computer starts and you get a single short beep,
the BIOS is working and has found and relayed the information about the input/output devices to the CPU. If you
turn on your computer and nothing happens at all, the problem is probably in your power supply (this assumes that
you have it plugged in properly) the BIOS is probably still working but the computer can’t start because of a power
problem. If all is well, the BIOS will find all the attached input/output devices, send a single short beep to the internal
speaker and the computer will start the boot process.

OK, so who’s the boss…? BIOS, CMOS or POST? If we must choose, it would be the (Power-on, Self-test),
POST. The POST is simply the process of the BIOS using the information from CMOS to start the computer.
Remember, the BIOS information is stored in CMOS memory maintained by an onboard battery.

Three ways to change and/or update the BIOS. Unlike ROM (read-only memory) the EPROM BIOS can be
changed or updated. The term for changing the EPROM software is referred to as flashing. You may have over
heard someone say that they need to flash the BIOS with a new update. Don’t worry if you have never heard this,
well, maybe you should worry a little. Computer components change on a daily basis and the BIOS needs to be
flexible enough to be able to change with them. All computers allow the user to change the BIOS software and how
the computer reacts to input/output devices. The standard is to offer the user a way in to the software via a hotkey at
startup. Normally this hotkey is the F2 key, the Del (Delete) key and in some cases the F1 key or a combination of
keys. Start your computer and watch the bottom left corner on the screen. This should let you know which key to
press to enter the BIOS setup. The BIOS setup, sometimes called the CMOS setup, allow the user to make
changes on the fly and save them. Let’s say you added an external modem to your PC on Communication serial port
number 1(Comm1), and no matter how many times you install the drivers, you can’t get the PC or Windows to
recognize it. Chances are that the BIOS does not know that the modem exists. Entering the BIOS setup and
changing it to allow the use of Comm1 will fix the problem and let the PC know that a device exists on that port. This
is the most common use of the BIOS setup and also the easiest to do. WARNING: it is just as easy to totally screw
up your system by making changes in the BIOS setup. So be careful and make sure you know how and what to
change. Changing the wrong settings can render your computer useless. There, we warned you twice, that’s because
we want you to think twice before you change the BIOS. Second is the Flash BIOS update from the manufacturer
of the BIOS. This is a software program that the manufacturer of the BIOS sends out periodically to insure the BIOS
conform to new equipment and standards. You can normally get this software upgrade for the manufacturer and
sometimes from the motherboard manufacturer. Be careful…be very careful installing the software and be positive
that it is for your specific BIOS. Always follow the manufacturers instructions exactly. The third way is replacing the
BIOS chip. Replacing the chip may be your only recourse and should be left to professional computer repairmen.

How do I know which BIOS I have? That also easy, the computer will actually tell you. If you’re fast enough,
you will see the BIOS name and version on the screen the moment you turn it on. If you are not a speed-reader you
can access the BIOS setup and retrieve the information from the setup program. You may also contact the
motherboard manufacturer and find which BIOS was installed on that board.