Thursday, November 5, 2009

Laptop Battery Cords Aren't the Same

In today's ever changing word of technology we are leaning less on batteries and more on cables to stay connected with our laptops. Most people know that a fully charged battery will only last 2 to 5 hours. At some point you're going to need a power source and a cable to negotiate the transition. The power cable has benefits that a battery will never be able to deliver.

First, a power cord is going to protect your pc in case of a power surge. Second, you are going to be providing direct power to your laptop enabling it to run at peak performance. The power cord obviously provides you the ability to charge your battery. If you travel often you no longer have to depend on battery power alone. There's an array of auto adapters to fit any size, make and model. There are even adapters for the frequent fliers that can't go a minute without their notebook.

Believe it or not the average laptop user has 2 power cords. There is nothing more frustrating than having some work to finish only to find out that you left your power cord at home. A power cord weighs less than a soda and easily fits in any small space.

Keep in mind that all laptops are not the same. An HP power cord may fit your Gateway notebook but it may not work properly. Power cords are different in size and wattage for different models. Some people thing that power cords are overpriced and I have to admit I agree. However if you're on the go and have no other alternative the price is small compared to productivity.

When you're making you decision on what power cord to chose don't forget to make sure the cord has surge protection built in. Make sure there is a guarantee of some sort or another. Most power cords come with a 12 month guarantee. Don't assume that all power cords are the same because they aren't. Take the time to find out what cord

Sunday, November 1, 2009

HDMI and DVI Cable

Most people who read this article have a box, bag, or drawer full of unused cables of some sort or another. Whether it be for your phone, DVD player, or iPod, we all have cables somewhere that we don't use anymore. We all know how fast technology changes and the cables that allow us to interact with them are no different. Many newer cables come with adapters to older components.

If you decided to purchase a HDMI television but still owned other electronics that only worked with DVI devices you would have to get an adapter to make them compatible. In case you're not sure what HDMI stands for it is high definition multimedia interface. This interface gives you much crisper audio and clearer video. Older devices such as DVD players, VHS players, and video game players are going to need a DVI to HDMI cable.

These cables are produced by a number of different companies. You can find generic and name brand cables at any local electronics stores. These cables are where the retailer makes a lot of money. They pay $2.00 for a cable they sell to you for $39 -$99. Whether generic or brand name they are all made of the same components. Most have copper wires that provides a triple layer of shielding for interference. GoldX offers 24k gold connectors that resist corrosion 10 XS better than the average pair.

There is one company that offers an easy solution to your cable problems. They're called Alton and they offer a bidirectional cable that functions whether it is connected from a DVI source to an HDMI display or connected to an HDMI source to a DVI display. Their connectors come standard with 24K gold connectors.

If you plan on buying some new electronics make sure you know what you need before you go out and spend your money on something that's not compatible with what you have at home. You're only going to end up frustrated and a little lighter in the wallet.