Apple doesnt fall far from the Geek

So about 2 weeks ago Apple dropped the price on many new Macbook pro 13inches with the more vivid retina display found in the popular iphone/ipad simply because they were not selling.

Now my speculation is that now the good folks over at Apple inc are gaining market share in computers on Windows (roughly 90%:5%) they are expanding outside of the cultlike following they have amassed into customers more concerned with value over associated prestige that comes with ownership. While Apple computers are great machines, from a Value standpoint they really dont satisfy as much as the pricetag would lead you to believe. Hell next time you see a Mac fanatic ask them why they want(ed) one and most will typically say "Macs cant get viruses." (which is false by the way).

Customers now are cinching their belts and when going to buy a $1600 Mac vs an equivalent PC to suit/exceed their needs is a third of the cost they are left asking.. What am i getting extra? Is it truly worth 3 of my computers? Cant i get a PC, with virus protection and hardware warranty but still have plenty leftover for Microsoft Office, and accessories im gonna need? Wheres the Value?

Im no psychic, but i foresee more attempts at Apple making less expensive hardware because to be honest, they will not be able to compete amongst the plethora of similar devices on the market that are making leaps and bounds technologically while Apple gives you lackluster innovation such as SIRI the cyber friend.

Roll wit the tide or get rolled over Apple, maybe you should step back into your comfort zone and not play wit the big kids.

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You Should Never Pay Full Price For...

 

Blank Media / Flash Memory

Blank CDs, DVDs, Thumb drives, Camera & Phone Memory Cards are ALWAYS on sale at some Local retailer, these items are high in markup and frequently used as an ad item to get people in the store just so the sales people a chance to convince them they need other high profit items. If you find the odd time frame where its not on sale at any local retailer, wait 7 days and I guarantee you it will be again shortly.

The only real exception to this is specialty stuff like encrypted flash drives, Brand specific Memory Cards (Olympus xD, Sony ProDuo), Lightscribe, Printable, Dual Layer, Rewritable CD/DVD's, and Blu-ray discs. Those will rarely be on sale because they are simply not widely used by comparison.

 

 

Retail Printers & Ink

In this day and age many people are choosing to do their own business card printing and marketing material from their home or small business office to save money in the long run. Ink & Toner will be a HUGE part of the cost but to counteract that make sure you get a Valuable, not cheap, printer. All-in-one Printers nowadays start as low as $75 and ink will run at least $40 so keep that in mind when making your purchase. Be on the lookout for bundle pricing with Ink and Printers, Store Brand ink, and in store free Store Membership Scan Cards which give you cash back for purchasing ink and Paper products (which also send out weekly coupons) on items such as these.

When selecting a printer make sure you choose from ones available everywhere (HP, Epson, Canon, Lexmark) the more readily available, the more aggressive competitive pricing will exist for the product. (On average HP will have the best pricing on both Hardware and Ink and coupons sent because they are the largest vendor in the category)

 

 

Windows Computers

Desktops & Laptops for the most part are sold below store cost, stores make money on the extras (Software, accessories, protection plans etc.) So in the age of Wal-Mart's and Online Vendors like Amazon.com make sure you aren't even paying MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price) for them. This info can be found on their websites, but a simple check of major features (Screen size, Processor, RAM) at local stores is sufficient enough info. Most retailers have new ads every Sunday so grab one from each place and compare like products to find the average price, then purchase the one below that that you like.

Shopping, like anything else, requires some logic thought behind your actions. By doing due diligence instead of buying on impulse you can save yourself tons of money and buyers remorse thinking you didn't get the best deal. Also, keep a look out for stores clearance specials because they have SEVERE mark downs because the goal isn't to make money on those items, but to get them out of the way to make room for new items.

Happy Shopping

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Money Saving Tips: PC Tune Up Software

 

People often do not realize that Windows-based computers require maintenance to keep they running at optimal speeds. Much like a vehicle needs oil changes to run properly a car needs to be flushed and cleaned out to ensure longevity. A software I have personally use is called “Tune Up Utilities” This software is very simple for even the non-technical of users and works on 3 computers for the very low price of $29.99. A Tune Up in a local retailer will cost you about $70 each where as this software will keep your computer running smoother daily for as long as you own it.

Tune Up utilities will ask you basic questions in a practical way about how you use your computer then configure itself accordingly to make the most of your hardware so that it runs as best as possible. A great software that doesn’t require a subscription and will save you at least $70 a year while keeping your Desktop or Notebook PC running at top speeds.

 

Check your local stock here

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Money Saving Tips: Microsoft Office Alternate

Microsoft Office Home & Student, (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) $120 for the single user or $150 for 3 User edition. is a quite expensive program that many people use on a daily basis, especial College students and business professionals. While the program is very well worth it the price tag may be a deterrent for those on a budget. Corel has a long standing name in software development and has designed a very compatible Office Suite software up to 58% lower than its Microsoft counterpart.

Now while this software is not 100% compatible, it is a great alternative with it’s one and three user editions ($50 & $100 respectively). Find this at your local Office Supply store such as Office Depot, Staples etc. and get your productivity up to par

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Money Saving PC Virus Removal Tips

 

Typical Virus Removal Cost $199(per computer), my charge $75(per computer), this Solution, $39.99(for up to 3 computers with 1 year subscription including Anti-virus and 24x7 Tech Support), Interested?

I'm sure you've had one before, matter of fact if you are using a free anti-virus program right now I'm sure you probably have some malware on there right now. Don't feel like paying north of $170 to fix the problem or Having to Restore your entire computer losing all your data and Programs? Well, you're welcome.

 

 

 

Step 1) Anti-Virus

AVG has been making names for itself in the Tech World for some time now with its limited version of Anti-Virus called AVGfree available on Download.com but the paid version gives you so much more features that's its pretty much nonsense not to use it to clean Viruses off your computer. With this $39.99 software, available of AVG.com or locally at Office Depot, you can actually install on up to 3 computers to protect for 1 year. So grab it even if you only have 1 because you can share or sell the other 2 licenses with friends/family to split the cost. Its as simple as Installing, following on screen prompts(being sure to be connected to high speed internet), and then running a full system scan. Be advised this 1st step alone will take hours to complete, I recommend letting it run overnight or during a time frame you do not need your PC at all.

 

 

Step 2) Malware Removal

Now normally this would be a first step since the free version of MalwareBytes is not an Anti-Virus per say, but more of a removal tool. Sounds confusing but the idea is that typical Anti-Virus programs prevent infection, not cure it. This software is actually free and, believe it or not, used by your local retailers in those $200 services, insane right? Install, update and run a full system scan with this software after AVG has completed. Again this can take a while so let it run as long as needed without interruption.

There is a paid version called Malwarebytes Pro that acts as both a remover and anti-virus if you wish to do that instead of AVG, but it does run $24.95 for 1 PC (multi-licensing discounts available) for Download only, having a disc will run an additional $9.95.

 

 

Step 3) Correct Registry Errors

This may sound funny, but it actually stands for "Crap Cleaner". Now I don't entirely understand why Microsoft does it this way, but there's a Slew of trash on your computer that you don't, have never, and will never use. But it's there, causing performance issues on your computer from within hidden folders you didn't even know existed. Now in all fairness you yourself have probably caused some of these issues downloading free programs and not uninstalling them properly, or the developer themselves didn't know how to write it all the way accurately and sometimes even windows updates themselves can cause issues. Mainly because people blindly install whatever's there without reading. All updates for windows are not all updates you need. Learning which ones you need is a time consuming process that most don't want to do learn, so just pay someone else to handle it at least once a year, its called an "Optimization" or "PC Tune-Up" at most locations. With Ccleaner (another free program) it will actually clear out a ton of junk files, temp files, internet histories and even fixes Registry Errors(main cause of crashes and performance issues).

Download CCleaner free here

 

 

Well, there you have it. If you simply do not have the $200 to spend getting your computer fixed correctly this is a Band-Aid that you can put on it to better the problem. Keep in mind though that this solution is make shift, there is still a large degree of computer expertise needed to fix the problem. Viruses are not all the same and this solution will only ensure most of the software issue is mended. This solution does not take into account that your virus issue could've damaged your hardware as well. Also variables will more than likely come up because these programs scan what could be viruses and will catch normal files necessary to run your programs that utilize the same format. By now you may be thinking... that $200 ain't so bad. You're right, you aren't paying for a product when you get a virus removed, you are paying for the expertise of getting the job done right.

But just in case though we offer remote and mail in service internationally if you need it done correctly for an affordable price (include city/state/country and Problem experiencing).

 

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PogoPlug - Its like Drop box… on Steroids

Are you tired of purchasing memory card after memory card to save your ever growing digital media library? Ever wanted to listen to a song, play a movie or open up a photo you had saved on your home computer but not on your mobile device? or worse, have you ever spent more money on a device specifically because it had more storage space? Well fear no More, because starting as low as $29.99 PogoPlug is the solution to your digital life's woes.

Before we continue, ensure you’ve got a High-speed internet connection or you will just be aggravated at all the benefits you could have investing in creating your own Cloud Storage system.

 

 

As you can see above PogoPlug has 4 distinct products that you can choose from, each is a one time fee instead of a monthly or yearly one like many other services so you can already see the immense value in getting this service over time.

Free vs. Premium Software

Going the all software route is a cheaper option for those who leave at least one computer on in the home at all times. The free software will allow you to access all of your files from a web browser or Mobile App (Palm, Apple, Android) that are included in the Internal or USB connected hard drives of the computer itself. This means as long as the computer is on, and you have internet access at home you will be able to access 100% of your files anywhere in the world. The Premium software adds one key ingredient that makes it ideal for those concerned with Entertainment, Media Streaming capabilities. With Media Streaming conversion technology you can instantly view Movie and audio files as opposed to downloading the entire file from the home computer. Great for those who have limited storage space on their mobile device or in a slow connection area.

 

PogoPlug vs. PogoPlug Business

These two options are for those who do not wish to leave their computers on 24hrs a day running up electric bills and increasing wear and tear on their computers. These options include an actual piece of Networking Hardware with a Gigabit Ethernet connection to plug directly into your Router and 4 USB 2.0 ports to add Hard drives for expanded storage. The greatest part of these devices is that as long as you are using Desktop Hard Drives that have external power sources, you can utilize USB hubs to add far more than 4 hard drives so the storage space capabilities are literally endless. The Pogoplug Business, made for the person with employees, can add multiple users with their own passwords and logins to access data, evaluate usage stats such as viewed and downloaded, along with permit certain log ins or users to have Read-Only access to give others the ability to simply view the files but not make changes to or download.

There was also a PogoPlug Video that was the Standard device with Media Streaming capabilities that has recently been recalled due to overheating that hopefully will come back to the market after the cooling fan has been added. It is simply a standard device with a Real-Time Video Conversion Processing Chip and Premium Software available at $199.99.

 

With this device being a one time fee for a Lifetime subscription the initial cost is well worth the investment. Believe it or not the information you have stored is saved directly onto your devices and not uploaded to a third party so you never have to worry about Tech Support or someone's servers going down as in the case with Traditional Cloud systems. this means added security and privacy of your files for whenever you want to access them or send them to others without having to worry about Email attachment limits, or seeking through thousands of links and advertisements to get to where you want to be. I mean imagine, all of your music, movies and photos accessible to be Used and shared at a moments notice. Greatness is at your fingertips, reach out and take advantage. 

 

June2011 Recall: http://blog.pogoplug.com/pogoplug-video-recall-2-507/

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Whats The Difference: Anti-Virus Protection

 

The main woes of Windows Users, Viruses & Malware (which are different). They can do anything from create pop ups for advertisements to changing all of your files into virus files secretly so that everything you click replicates and runs it to steal personal info from you to send to a third party until it eventually corrupts and crashes your entire computer... Sucks huh? Well Anti-Virus is something you HAVE to have, not something you Might need unless you are skilled enough to repair your own PC. Otherwise average Virus removal (if its even possible) cost topples the $200 mark and will typically leave you without your PC for at least 48hrs. Since Anti-Virus only runs $40 - 80 a year, its safe to say that Prevention is cheaper than the cure. Let's go over the main differences of what you will see available in retail Locations.

 

Anti-Virus: $40 per year (1 User)

One way Protection of malware being downloaded to the computer via Internet, internal Network, CD/DVD and/or USB.

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Internet Security: $70 per year (3 user)

Includes all Anti-Virus protection but adds two-way identity theft protection for those doing secure websites such as online banking, shopping and even secure, Password protected logins like Business servers, Social Networking sites etc. etc. etc.

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Total Protection: $99 (3 User)

Anti-virus + Internet Security + Online remote backup (size varies between companies) and typically tune up tools built in to keep your computer running at peak efficiency which is usually included in Annual Tune Ups costing $70-99 a year.

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Now the name brand of the Anti Viruses/Malware Protection program you decide to get will provide you slight differences in install time and interface/usability but when purchasing within a retail location the likewise categories will have similar protection levels. Once you set it up properly there is nothing you will need to do besides read any pop up messages when it requires your input.

If you are relying on a free antivirus programs (Avast and AVG being the most popular) keep in mind two crucial things you will be sacrificing.

 

Technical Support

You are not entitled to any customer service because in all reality, you are not a customer. You are a Cyber Guinea pig testing new products/features for a company in exchange for free software. Your computer is simply a test subject to compile data to help improve the paid versions of the companies software.

Real Time Updates

Free programs will not allow you to clog up their severs getting the newest updates so they will be restricted on how often they do so automatically (usually once a day vs. the Up-to-the-Minute Paid service).

 

Those will be the two main differences but there will a ton more in programming expertise, amount of digital signatures known to protect from, compatibility with windows and also with various manufacturers. Incorrect programming could literally stop functionality to the hardware of your machine.

Bottom Line, you get what you pay for. Don't skimp to save what amounts to $0.11 a day on what will cost you at least $200 to fix. It really isn't worth it. If you absolutely CANNOT afford it, use AVG and make sure you only use your credit/debit cards on sites you know are legit (that's means no exclusive Jordan's and Fake designer handbags from over seas).

 

Hope this helps you out, For additional Tech Support including Anti-Virus Install and Virus Removal feel free to hit me up for moderate remote and ship-to fees on Hardware & Software.

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Chrome Book - The Future of Business Computing

 

 

Google, as we all know, is focused on Open Source computing and is trying to take over not only Apple as far as rapid Growth over time but now going after Microsoft's share of Computers. The Google OS, not Android, is starting to be marketed as a new Web based computing environment made to utilize the Cloud based format many companies are racing towards. This device does not run on the Microsoft platform at all or have much internal hard drive space, instead it saves All info on a web based server accessible by the internet anywhere in the world from any Chromebook device. What this means for business customers is that they can access, edit, save and share all info without worrying about security protocols, trade secrets being released or high cost Server based systems while realizing significantly lower tech support costs. Sounds dope right?

What does this mean for the average user? Not much to be completely honest, the machine itself only has minimal specs for computing that would mainly be beneficial for someone using Basic Business applications such as Spreadsheets, Word processing and PowerPoint slides on its 12inch HD screen. Essentially the machine is only as strong as new age netbooks with a Dual Core processor which is great for basic Office functions up to and including Movie Watching, Social Networking (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter etc.), Internet Research, and keeping in contact with Webcam conferencing, Emailing and instant massaging. Think about this device as your Smartphone with a bigger screen, a 6-9hr battery life and 10second boot up time. Below is an example of the Specs and Price you will get with one of these new ChromeBooks which are available for Pre-Order at Best Buy and Amazon.com right now. 

 

These ChromeBooks range in price from $379 - $500 as of right now by Acer and Samsung, huge names in Computer manufacturing for Business applications with the main difference being if the unit is Wi-Fi only or 3G Verizon built in which includes an Internet connection up to 100MB per month for Free*.

 

*100MB Free includes 2years of Service from the date first used.

Other Subscription Plans available on a 30day contract basis except “Limitless Day Plan” which expires in 24hrs from activation but has no GB Usage Cap.

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Whats The Difference: Mac vs PC

 

The battle between Good & Evil... (Cue dramatic Music and fog machine). Okay maybe its not that dramatic but Windows and Mac are the most publicized Computer Operating systems that people know about and I want to help the average person understand the main difference between the two products and why there is such a Price difference between them without getting too "Techie" with the Jargon. Hopefully this helps...

 

"Macs Don't Get Viruses"

This is true...-ish. Its not that Macs don't or can't get viruses, its that it is more secure and so few people have them by comparison that it simply doesn't make sense to create them. Think about it like this:

Windows Programming language is like English while Apple language is like Latin. If you wanted to write a sign to send a message to as many people as possible in the quickest way, which would you write it in?

So its not that Apple cannot get viruses, its just that they are so rare that it just isn't yet worth the time and effort to do so.

 

Open Source vs Closed Source

Microsoft Windows, started by Bill Gates, decided he wanted to make his creation a publicly available and development friendly one. This leaves it open to literally BILLIONS of software developers from International Corporations to Geek Lair Supercomputer Builders in their moms basement to make whatever software they deem fit to enhance their experience on it. This, in part, is why Windows is on over 93% of all the computers in the WORLD. This is why far more third party software and devices work so well with PCs and limited, if at all, with Apple computers. On the contrary, since Apple is a closed source all commercial software development has to go through them and therefore has a higher level of compatibility not only with the computer itself, but every other program available for the operating system as well. What this means is that Windows has far more Software available, with far more third party accessories and add-ons while Apple has less, but with a far less likely hood of any of them crashing or being incompatible (like nearly 0%, Literally).

 

Quality

This is one of the most overlooked differences between Mac & PC which boggles the mind because its the most noticeable, Go Figure.

Casing

Computers are typically made from one of 3 things, Cheap Plastic, High Grade Plastic, and Metal. Think of the three like the three pigs houses: Straw, Wood and Brick. PCs make use of all three types in order to help keep prices low for the larger range of consumer while Apple ONLY uses the higher of the two. Matter of fact in the laptops only 1 computer is High Grade plastic, the rest are aluminum.

Screen Type

Currently in displays there are two main technologies, LCD and LED. Many PC devices, Monitors and TVs are now switching to the longer lasting, Lower Power consumption, higher contrast, more accurate color technology (and higher price) of the LED which Apple has been using for years. This is one of the main reasons why many Graphic artists and movie editors choose Apple over PC. The color difference available between LCD & LED is somewhere between approximately 100,000 & 12Million Colors available (for Computer Monitors Only).

Battery Life

In Laptops battery life is a huge concern for those on the go. The technological differences between PC & Mac are different here also, Apple chooses to use a higher costing, longer lasting one. The minimum life on an Apple (Macbook Air) is 5hrs while PC it can be as low as 90minutes. With the Increase in size and price of a typical computer, the power necessary to run it also rises which, pending the same cell size battery, means you will have lower run times. What Apple has done is make this counter intuitive to increase the cell size with price and power necessary which gives the user 8-10hrs of Use (not standby time) on all full Laptops.

Even the way the battery charges varies between the two Computer Titans. A simple plug in for the PC with electricity charging via a prong inside the Laptop while Macs all use a Magnetic Smart charger which eliminates Over charging and degradation of the battery cells. It actually cuts flow of electricity magnetically when battery is full. What this means is not only will the battery last longer per day, it will also not need to be replace every 12-18months like PCs either which saves an additional $100-200 every 2years.

 

 

Still with me? Hopefully I didn't get too Geekish on you and you were able to follow on the main differences between the two and understand the pricing and differences between them. There are more differences of course but that would require far more expertise to understand. But know a few things if you are contemplating going from PC to Mac:

Initial Price:	$199 (Netbook) - $299 (Laptop/Desktop)	$699 (Desktop) - $999 (Laptop)
Annual Upkeep:	$150 (Optimization/Cleaning/Anti-Virus)	$0
Compatibility:	93% of Worlds Computers	5% of Worlds Computers
Average Life:	2-3 years	5-7 years

A PC will cost you less up front, but a Mac will cost you less over time because of lower maintenance, and about $500 worth of included software not including free downloads via the App Store. Its all about what you want to do and how much you can actually afford.

Any Questions? Feel free to write me on Twitter/Facebook/Email if you need free consultation on which operating system you should get (PC/Mac) and the specs you'd need. I also have access to Great pricing on Quality PC repair and Tech Support with 40+ years of experience.

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